The author invokes the principles of Jakob Nielsen, a prominent usability expert, to stress two main points:
Firstly, UI/UX design should strive to help users avoid making mistakes. Nielsen suggests that dialogue boxes can be an effective way to achieve this. These boxes should clearly communicate the potential ramifications of the user’s action, going beyond a simple confirmation message. For instance, a dialogue box titled “Delete Account” could display a warning like “Are you sure you want to delete your account? This action is irreversible and will delete your profile permanently.” This explicit description drives home the severity of the action, helping prevent accidental confirmations. Visual cues such as the color red can further signal danger. Avoiding a default option in the dialogue box forces users to consciously make their choice, reducing the chance of hasty or accidental decisions.
Secondly, Nielsen advocates for allowing users the opportunity to undo their actions. This creates a buffer period during which the user can change their mind or correct a mistake. A practical example of this principle is Gmail’s feature that allows users to retract an email within 20 seconds after sending it. This functionality significantly reduces user anxiety and the potential impact of errors.
In essence, thoughtful UI/UX design can act as a safety net, guiding users through potentially risky actions and offering them the chance to reverse their decisions. This ultimately leads to a more user-friendly product and reduces the potential for costly mistakes.
