10 Usability Heuristics for Design
"A user interface is like a joke. If you have to explain it, it’s not that good." - Martin Leblanc
Jakob Nielsen’s 10 general principles for interaction design. They are called “heuristics” because they are broad rules of thumb and not specific usability guidelines.
What is Usability heuristics?
Usability heuristics are a set of guidelines for designing intuitive and user-friendly interfaces, introduced by Jakob Nielsen. The first version of these heuristics was developed in 1989 and gained significant attention, highlighting the need for refinement. In 1994, Nielsen released the final version, an optimized list based on systematic research.
These principles help make designs easier to use by focusing on making them clear, efficient, and functional. They serve as a simple checklist for designers and developers to improve usability, reduce frustration, and create smoother experiences for users.
10 Usability Heuristics
1. Visibility of System Status
The system should always keep users informed about what is happening through appropriate and timely feedback.
Example: "Showing a progress bar during file uploads to let users know the process status."
2. Match Between System and the Real World
Designs should use familiar language, concepts, and workflows that align with the user’s real-world experiences.
Example: "Using a trash bin icon for deleting files, which mirrors a real-world object."
3. User Control and Freedom
Users should feel in control of their interactions, with the ability to undo or redo actions easily.
Example: An “Undo” button in email apps like Gmail to retrieve a sent email within a time frame.
4. Consistency and Standards
Consistency in design ensures that users don’t have to learn new conventions for similar actions, creating familiarity.
Example: "Using standard icons like a floppy disk for saving and a magnifying glass for search."
5. Error Prevention
Design systems to prevent errors before they occur, reducing the likelihood of user frustration.
Example: "Highlighting password strength indicators during account creation or disabling invalid options."
6. Recognition Rather Than Recall
Minimize the user’s memory load by making information, options, or actions visible.
Example: "Autofill suggestions for search queries or form inputs."
7. Flexibility and Efficiency of Use
Cater to both novice and expert users by providing shortcuts and customization options for efficiency.
Example: "Power users can rely on keyboard shortcuts while beginners can navigate menus easily."
8. Aesthetic and Minimalist Design
A clean design avoids unnecessary clutter and focuses on essential elements that help users achieve their goals.
Example: "A simple dashboard that highlights key metrics without overwhelming users with extra information."
9. Help Users Recognize, Diagnose, and Recover From Errors
Error messages should be clear and guide users on how to fix the problem.
Example: Instead of “Invalid Input,” display “Please enter a valid email address” for better clarity.
10. Help and Documentation
Provide users with easily accessible support or guidance when needed.
Example: "Offering tooltips, FAQs, or guided tours within the interface to explain features or workflows."
Check my real world usability analysis
Today I will go through “SC mobile Bangladesh” app and talk about it’s Usability Heuristics. It’s an mobile banking app from Standard Chartered Bank Limited.