Jakob Nielsen is a famous usability expert who created ten heuristics or rules to help designers create user-friendly products. These heuristics are a set of guidelines that can help designers make sure that their products are easy to use and understand.
Here are Jakob's Ten Usability Heuristics explained in a simple way:
- Visibility of system status: This means that the system should always let the user know what is happening. For example, when you are downloading a file, the system should show you a progress bar so you know how much time is left.
- Match between system and the real world: This means that the system should use language and concepts that the user is familiar with. For example, using a trash can icon to represent deleting a file, because users are familiar with the idea of throwing something away.
- User control and freedom: This means that the user should always have the option to undo or redo an action. For example, if you accidentally delete an email, you should be able to undo that action.
- Consistency and standards: This means that the system should use consistent language and design throughout the product. For example, using the same button design and language for all similar functions.
- Error prevention: This means that the system should prevent errors from happening in the first place. For example, asking the user to confirm a dangerous action before executing it.
- Recognition rather than recall: This means that the system should show the user information instead of expecting them to remember it. For example, showing a list of options instead of asking the user to remember them.
- Flexibility and efficiency of use: This means that the system should be designed for both novice and expert users. For example, having a simple mode for beginners and an advanced mode for experts.
- Aesthetic and minimalist design: This means that the system should be visually pleasing and simple. For example, using fewer colors and clean lines.
- Help users recognize, diagnose, and recover from errors: This means that the system should provide clear and helpful error messages. For example, telling the user exactly what went wrong and how to fix it.
- Help and documentation: This means that the system should provide clear and helpful documentation. For example, having a user manual or a help center.