Journey through Interactive Design

Lecture seven is about the common design patterns used in user interfaces.

User interfaces are significant in providing users the necessary tools to achieve their goals. Creating a successful interface should aim to engage users through visual design and smooth navigation. UI patterns shapes the user experience as solutions for common design issues. Common navigation patterns can be categorised into four types:

Tab
Examples: navigation tab, module tab

Recommended use:

• for separating content into 2 – 9 sections
• section with short titles
• when you want the navigation to fill the whole width of the page
• for giving clear indications of the current location in the website
• for a flat navigation structure

Menu
Examples: horizontal and vertical dropdown menu, accordion menu

Recommended use:

• for organising and hiding information into limited spaces
• for guiding users to navigate through sections of the website
• organising 2- 9 sections in hierarchical structure

Jumping Hierarchy
Examples: shortcut dropdown, breadcrumbs, wide footer, home link

Recommended use:

• allowing quick access to specific functions
• when there are specific sections and pages that are accessed more frequently in the website
• for saving space
• for indicating current location through the website

Content
Examples: carousel, event calendar, article list

Final Thoughts

Lecture 7 was important in understanding the relation between user interface and user experiences. User interface shapes the experience through aesthetics and smooth navigations.
Design patterns in the user interfaces are significant in creating a positive and engaging experience for users of interactive media.