UI design is the interface through which visitors use a website: buttons, menus, fields and states. An attractive presentation does not establish that those elements are easy to use. Ask someone to complete a specific task and observe where they hesitate.

Start with the main task

Choose important actions such as finding a service, comparing an offer, submitting an enquiry or buying a product. Check whether navigation labels match user expectations. A creative label may be memorable while still hiding its destination.

Create a visual hierarchy. The main action should be easy to identify without every element competing for attention. Use consistent styling for elements with the same role.

Design every form state

Do not evaluate only an empty form. Check focus, completion, errors, submission and confirmation. Labels should remain understandable after typing begins. Placeholder text does not always replace a visible label.

Explain errors near the relevant field and preserve entered information where possible. Ask only for details needed at that stage. Additional information can be collected later when there is a clear reason.

Test mobile and keyboard use

Check navigation, buttons and forms on a small screen. Fixed elements and the phone keyboard should not obscure essential content. A smaller desktop layout is not automatically a good mobile experience.

Move through interactive elements with a keyboard and check the focus indicator. Review contrast and readability. Use appropriate semantic elements: buttons for actions and links for navigation. These details support both accessibility and predictable behaviour.

Separate preferences from observations

Record what a participant attempted, what happened and what blocked them. “I dislike green” is a preference; “I did not notice the submit button” is an observation about a task. Both may matter, but they carry different weight when prioritising usability problems.

Test again after changes. UI design improves through checking actual behaviour, rather than approving a static image alone.

Frequently asked questions

Are UI and UX the same thing?

No. UI focuses on the interface, while UX includes the wider experience, flows and fit with user needs. In practice, they influence one another.

Do animations improve a website?

They can explain changes or provide feedback, but should serve a purpose. Effects that delay actions or distract from content can reduce usefulness.

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