Notes

Here are some basic web user interface design principles on the basis of which we analysed the website www.timesofindia.com.

Clarity: Clarity is the most important web user interface design principle, it means that users can effectively use the interface that you have designed and they can recognize what it is, how they can interact with interface, what problems can be solved and predict what will happen when they use it. Clarity also means that the information can be accurately conveyed to users. However, the Times of India website has a very cluttered look making it difficult for user to navigate.
User-centered design: Web UI designers should know about who is your target user and how to put yourself in user’s shoes to consider about the design process. User is the one who will experience your final product. What’s more, users never read, they just scan the web to find the information which can meet their expectations. Once they find it, they will skip to next page without hesitation. Web UI designers should be aware of the different operating habits, needs and abilities among users.Times of India because of its cluttered look makes it difficult to reach the desired information.
KISS (Keep It Simple And Stupid): KISS, which is the most basic web user interface design principle. Users always feel most comfortable when they can control something. User's habits and abilities have a huge difference, they aren’t web designers, and they can not fully understand the design principles and operations of the web you have designed, what you do is to reduce the burden on users, keep operations simple and stupid. Even though cluttered, the operations of the site are easy and simple and one click away.
Consistency: Consistency is the main principle of web UI design. Consistent construction design can leave a good impression on user’s mind; Consistent navigation design can guide users to find their most needed information quickly and effectively. Times of India has a consistent look.
Strong visual hierarchy: Visual hierarchy is the key principle of web user interface design and it can be achieved when there is a clear viewing order to the visual elements on a screen, which you should possess the ability to distinguish the primary and secondary information. Times of India displays headlines in bold and the next content in a smaller font thus prioritising content.