Easily digestible UI tips for developers [closed]

Answer 1

I think that this link would be a good starting point, from Microsoft's "Windows Vista User Experience Guidelines:
http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/aa511328.aspx

And this might be very close to the two page bullet point list you are looking for: "Top Violations":
http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/aa511331.aspx

Very down to earth tips like: "Set a minimum window size if there is a size below which the content is no longer usable."

Answer 2

Do some hallway usability testing (in the same way you would do code reviews).

Even a really quick "Hey! try this" usability test (if you can call it that) with the guy next to you will make a big difference. The main thing is to have somebody other than yourself try the bit of UI you've just built.

It's amazing how many times other people get stuck using your new UI, and it only takes a couple of minutes (usually) to find the biggest problems.

Answer 3

1. ask the user, don't just make things up
2. simplify - remove a step, eliminate clicks, etc.
3. get familiar with the principles of usability

Answer 4

Some simple tips for daily user interface web design and application design:

• Use simple static sketches to begin preliminary web app development plans. -Dont allow users too many choices. instead, use cater design to send users down a path they'll benefit from. -Define key user groups and the journeys they made -Practice iterative design as a part of UI to ensure ROI

Answer 5

When you are about to perform an action that will change or delete information, don't ask 'are you sure' - users will learn to click the button as part of the action. Try to allow for an 'Undo' in the system design.

Answer 6

Use tool tips as much as possible. It is amazing how these little guys can add a large amount of help to the end user and they are unobtrusive to the application itself.