What UI designers can learn from Architecture

In today’s technologically driven world, the profession ‘Architect’ has several connotations. It no longer reflects the brick and mortar world alone. Information Architecture can be defined as a process that focuses on organizing, structuring and labeling content in an effective and sustainable way.

As I was discussing these similarities with a close friend, an architect for the past 30 years, I realized that there was a lot in common between the architecture design process and work done by User Experience/Interface (UI) designers. Further conversations with leading professionals in both industries gave me some interesting takeaways to help other UI designers take their work to the next level of excellence.

   The Roman architect Vitruvius in his treatise on architecture, De Architectura, asserted that there were three principles of good architecture:

Firmatis (Durability) - It should stand up robustly and remain in good condition.

Utilitas (Utility) - It should be useful and function well for the people using it.

Venustatis (Beauty) - It should delight people and raise their spirits.

1.      The design process:

UI designers, as well as any thinkers, scientists, engineers, engage in the design process that involves key steps to get the desired results.

2.      Consider the context:

Architects tend to design something while keeping in mind the larger context of its use. Similarly, UI designers should understand the context of the use of a page. Keeping the larger image in mind, they should focus on designing the entire user experience and not just the page.

3.      Justify your work:

An architect uses the design components to bring more value to that space. For e.g.- a window not only creates a light source for the room, it also can be used to frame a view or highlight the structural construction material used. Similarly, the UI designer should work at understanding the user’s needs and incorporating them into the design. The key is to take maximum advantage of all the design elements for delightful user experience.

4.      Set the stage:

First impressions are the most powerful and are established when a person interacts with a space for the first time. Be it a building, room or even a website. Crafting that right impression where the user understands how they can best interact with a space is what determines the success or failure of a design. It is important to think from the user’s perspective and incorporate features that would appeal to them.

5.      Define the ‘parti’:

The central idea or concept of a building: An insightful piece by Steven Hien describes the concept of ‘parti’ very beautifully. To put it simply, ‘parti’ refers to the central idea of a building i.e. it is the launch point to consider as the design and user experience is crafted. Defining this holistic approach will help the designer stay focused on the final goal and connect on an emotional level with the user.

In conclusion, as a UI designer it is important to have your finger on the customers’ pulse to understand their specific needs. While their goals might change over time, keeping in mind these basic guiding principles will help you deliver mindful and ethical designs that will stand the test of time.