Learn User Interface/Interaction Design
User Interface Design - User interface design (UI) or user interface engineering is the design of user interfaces for machines and software, such as computers, home appliances, mobile devices, and other electronic devices, with the focus on maximizing the user experience. The goal of user interface design is to make the user’s interaction as simple and efficient as possible, in terms of accomplishing user goals (user-centered design).
Interaction Design Pattern - A design pattern is a formal way of documenting a solution to a common design problem. The idea was introduced by the architect Christopher Alexander for use in urban planning and building architecture, and has been adapted for various other disciplines, including teaching and pedagogy, development organization and process, and software architecture and design.
User Experience Design - User Experience Design (UXD or UED or XD) is the process of enhancing user satisfaction by improving the usability, accessibility, and pleasure provided in the interaction between the user and the product. User experience design encompasses traditional human–computer interaction (HCI) design, and extends it by addressing all aspects of a product or service as perceived by users.
Human–Computer Interaction - Human–computer interaction (HCI) researches the design and use of computer technology, focusing particularly on the interfaces between people (users) and computers. Researchers in the field of HCI both observe the ways in which humans interact with computers and design technologies that lets humans interact with computers in novel ways.
Minimally I’d suggest reading the following canonical texts on the matter so one can support and potential build usable user interfaces.
- About Face: The Essentials of Interaction Design [read][$]
- Design for Hackers: Reverse Engineering Beauty [read][$]
- Design for Non-Designers [watch]
- Designing Interfaces [read][$]
- Designing Web Interfaces: Principles and Patterns for Rich Interactions [read][$]
- Don’t Make Me Think, Revisited: A Common Sense Approach to Web Usability [read][$]