What UI density means and how to design for it (matthewstrom.com)

Article summary

The article discusses the concept of UI density, which refers to the amount of information an interface can provide over a series of moments. It explores different types of density, including visual density, information density, and design density, and how they relate to user experience. The article also touches on the idea that density is not just about visual elements, but also about the actions a user takes in their journey. The author argues that a good interface should provide the highest value outcomes in the smallest amount of time, space, pixels, and ink.

Main themes

• UI density
• Visual design
• Information architecture
• User experience
• Design principles
• Interface complexity

What commenters say

• Some commenters argue that the article redefines the concept of density in a way that is not entirely accurate, and that a good interface should maximize information without losing visual salience.
• Others suggest that the trend towards sparse interfaces is a result of designing for both web and mobile at the same time, which can lead to a compromise on design quality.
• There is a disagreement on whether a dense interface is more efficient and desirable, with some arguing that it can lead to information overload, while others see it as a means to provide more value to the user.
• Some commenters propose that a user-switchable 'dense mode' could be a solution to cater to different user preferences, while others argue that this approach may not be practical or effective.
• The use of loading animations and indicators to manage user expectations and perception of time is seen as a key aspect of designing for density, with some arguing that it can make the interface feel faster and more responsive.
• There is a concern that some interfaces deliberately introduce delays to make the user experience feel more complex or to serve ads, which can be frustrating and negatively impact the user experience.
• The importance of considering the audience and their needs when designing for density is highlighted, with some arguing that a one-size-fits-all approach may not be effective.