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Software Design Tips

A good idea alone is often not enough when it comes to designing a successful software application. Developers must consider a wide variety of factors when developing a new application and bringing their vision to reality. The design of the User Interface (UI) can make or break an application.

Predictable

Applications should be designed so that they behave in a predictable manner. The user interface should be predictable, familiar, and consistent. Software 'users' rarely want to be required to read a manual simply to use a new program; they typically want to just install an application, and expect to know how to use it.

Simplicity

A good application design is not overly complicated. In fact, the simpler the interface, the better it will often be received. In regard to software design, less is more. The best user interfaces are highly functional yet very simple. The actual interface should be designed to be as simple as possible. A respected programmer was once overheard to say that the best interface is simple -- Take things away until you cannot take away any more.

Representative

Program icons and buttons should be reflective of the action they represent. The graphic on the icon or button should in some way relate to the task or function that they activate. The graphics should be crisp and sharp, and the color scheme should work with the colors of the user interface and give a professional appearance.

Minimize Clicks

Create a user interface that minimizes the number of clicks required to accomplish the most commonly-used tasks. Also, create hot-keys and macros for common tasks, so the user has a choice of methods to accomplish a given task.

Consistency

Icons and menus should be consistent within the program from screen to screen. This will help the program flow.

Wizards

Wizard walk-throughs are a great addition. If you incorporate wizards into your software design, be sure to include one that guides the user through the initial program setup, as well as the first and basic steps of using the program.

Cater To Your Customers

For example, if your prime demographic is the elderly, increase the font sizes used, or allow a choice of various font sizes, or at least be sure that your software displays properly if the user has "large fonts" deployed. Understanding the expertise and demographic of your prime user base will help you design software that works effectively for them.

When developing software, don't skimp on the design. First impressions matter! Use quality graphics, and spend time perfecting the User Interface, so your users intuitively know how the application will function.

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