This article was sent to me yesterday by our Creative Director, Hugh, and it is excellent.
In fact, it's so good that I would go so far as to say that anyone considering a web design project should read, comprehend and apply the observations contained within. That said, as I read through the document, I was struck by a few things that led to one big conclusion. Here are the things that came to mind:
- There are quite simply, A LOT of things to consider when designing a user interface.
- The author hints at it near the end of the article, but in general, this article doesn't really deal with people who have accessibility issues such as visual impairments. So adding to that to the mix adds yet another (deep) layer of complication.
- The author said it herself, "people are going to ask for things that actually aren't best for them."
- Now, putting all those things together I felt affirmed in the knowledge that experience has granted me in knowing that good user interface design/development is an incredibly elusive thing and acheiving perfection in it is likely an unattainable goal.
It's something to consider deeply when engaging in a design project with an internal or external design/development professional. But perhaps even more importantly, on an ongoing basis, measurement of the usability of your site and a commitment of time and money to constantly rework and improve your website is the foundation for success for it.
