User Interface designers take users into account when developing products every day. Research and user tests all play a role in the final product that is presented. Designers and developers must apply certain design principles that would affect the outcome of the product, which can be referred to as “The Golden Rules of UI Design.” To ensure that every product is as fluid and user friendly as possible, designers must ideate and use these concepts to create the best interface. 

1. Hand Over the Control 

The most important part of user interface design is giving the user a sense of control. When users can learn products quickly they are more likely to stick with them. Having reversible features, back and undo buttons, and ways to delete content, gives the user a way to backpedal on their interactions. Easy navigation is a key indicator of good UI as this allows users to have access to all the interface features with no hassle. 

2. Are You Comfortable? 

Making applications highly accessible for users allows for comfort and understanding of the application. When a wide variety of users interact with one product, accessibility is important to ensure each user’s individual needs are met. Confirming that all elements included in the application are necessary will lower the amount of information, or choice overload, users may encounter. Using terminology that users understand increases the likelihood of application usage as users feel at one with the interface. 

3. My Brain Can’t Take it 

Less is more. Adding unnecessary features and choices within an application can lead to cognitive overload for the user. When users interact with a product they don’t want to think about what is next, and would rather be shown and easily navigated to the next step. Reducing the number of actions it takes to complete a task, and promoting visual aid within the application ensures clarity allowing a pathway of success when utilizing your application. 

4. Be Consistent 

Consistency is key. When developing applications across multiple platforms, keeping consistent branding, interface design, and structure, aids in developing the brand's identity and increases user recognition. Visual consistency is a large part of the puzzle, but ensuring your product is consistent with user expectation also plays a large role. If you’ve developed a web application that is high-functioning, easy to use and visually appealing, and follow it up with a mobile version that lacks all of the above, users are likely to be disappointed and less willing to interact with your product moving forward. 

At the end of the day users will always have preferences when it comes to interactivity and no product is perfect, but implementing these small principles into your design can increase your overall user interface and lead to great products.