Database Reference
In-Depth Information
prominence. In Western cultures, user interfaces are typically designed to be read from left to right and
from top to bottom. The most important or frequently used controls are most easily accessed at the top
of a form. Controls that will be used after a user completes an action on a form, such as a Submit button,
should follow the logical flow of information and be placed at the bottom of the form.
It is also necessary to consider the relatedness of information. Related information should be
displayed in controls that are grouped together. For example, if you have a form that displays
information about a customer, a purchase order, or an employee, you can group each set of controls on
a Tab control that allows a user to easily move back and forth between displays.
Aesthetics is also an important consideration in the placement of controls. You should try to avoid
forms that display more information than can be understood at a glance. Whenever possible, controls
should be adequately spaced to create visual appeal and ease of accessibility.
Consistency
Your user interface should exhibit a consistent design across each form in your application. An
inconsistent design can make your application seem disorganized or chaotic, hindering adoption by
your target audience. Don't ask users to adapt to new visual elements as they navigate from form to
form.
Consistency is created through the use of colors, fonts, size, and types of control employed
throughout the application. Before any actual application development takes place, you should decide
on a visual scheme that will remain consistent throughout the application.
Aesthetics
Whenever possible, a user interface should be inviting and pleasant. Although clarity and simplicity
should not be sacrificed for the sake of attractiveness, you should endeavor to create an application that
will not dissuade users from using it.
Color
Judicious use of color helps make your user interface attractive to the target audience and inviting to
use. It is easy to overuse color, however. Loud, vibrant colors might appeal to some users, but others
might have a negative reaction. When designing a background color scheme for your application, the
safest course is to use muted colors with broad appeal.
Always research any special meanings associated with color that might affect user response to your
application. If you are designing an application for a company, you might consider using the company's
corporate color scheme in your application. When designing for international audiences, be aware that
certain colors might have cultural significance. Maintain consistency, and do not overdo the color.
Always think about how color might affect usability. For example, gray text on a white background
can be difficult to read and thus impairs usability. Also, be aware of usability issues related to color
blindness. Some people, for example, are unable to distinguish between red and green. Therefore, red
text on a green background is invisible to such users. Do not rely on color alone to convey information.
Contrast can also attract attention to important elements of your application.
