User Experience

7 Overlooked UX Laws to Transform Your Website Experience

In the ever-evolving realm of digital design, understanding user behaviour has become a cornerstone of successful website creation. Gone are the days when a visually appealing interface alone could guarantee user satisfaction.

Today, a profound comprehension of user psychology and interaction patterns is essential to crafting a website that leaves a lasting impression. While you may be well-versed in the traditional UX principles, let's explore seven lesser-discussed UX laws that can transform your website's user experience into something truly exceptional.

1. The Law of Cognitive Load: Guiding Users Through Simplification

The Law of Cognitive Load emphasizes the importance of minimizing the mental effort required for user interaction. While Hick's Law underscores the impact of too many choices, the Law of Cognitive Load delves deeper into the psychological aspect. It proposes that users have limited cognitive resources, and a complex interface can overwhelm them.


To simplify, consider the concept of progressive disclosure. Present only essential information upfront and gradually reveal more as users engage. By reducing cognitive load, you create a sense of ease and ensure users can navigate without feeling mentally drained.

2. The Gestalt Law of Common Fate: Unifying Elements for Smooth Flow


The Gestalt Law of Common Fate highlights how users perceive objects that move in the same direction as a unified group. Translating this principle into web design involves animations and transitions that guide users' attention and help them connect elements.


For instance, consider a shopping cart icon that subtly bounces each time an item is added. This cohesive animation enhances user feedback and aligns with the Law of Common Fate, creating a more harmonious and engaging experience.


3. The Law of Equilibrium: Achieving Visual Balance for Enhanced Engagement


While white space and visual hierarchy are well-discussed concepts, the Law of Equilibrium takes it a step further by emphasizing the importance of balance in design elements. Achieving equilibrium involves distributing visual weight evenly across the screen, making users feel more comfortable and encouraging exploration.


Incorporate asymmetry deliberately, using the Rule of Thirds or the Golden Ratio to create dynamic compositions. This balanced disbalance adds an element of surprise while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing experience.


4. The Law of Elasticity: Adapting to User Context for Immersive Experiences


Just as Fitts's Law addresses the relationship between object size and distance, the Law of Elasticity delves into how a user's context affects their interactions. Websites should be adaptable, responding to various devices, screen sizes, and interaction modes to ensure a seamless experience across platforms.


Designing with elasticity involves creating flexible layouts, touch-friendly elements, and intuitive interactions that accommodate mouse and touch inputs. By catering to user context, you ensure a consistent and immersive journey, regardless of the device being used.


The Top 10 Marketing Challenges for SaaS Companies

How to Overcome Common Roadblocks and Achieve Growth.

The Top 10 Marketing Challenges for SaaS Companies

5. The Law of Semantic Interference: Harnessing Contextual Cues for User Engagement


In a world inundated with information, the Law of Semantic Interference highlights the significance of context in comprehension. Users draw upon contextual cues to interpret data quickly and accurately.


Leverage this law using visual metaphors and contextually relevant imagery to convey complex concepts. If your website promotes eco-friendly products, use imagery associated with sustainability to reinforce your message. These subtle cues can enhance user understanding and foster a deeper connection with your content.


6. The Law of Perceptual Set: Cultivating Expectations for Seamless Navigation


Like Jacob's Law, the Law of Perceptual Set focuses on user expectations. It suggests that users form mental models based on past experiences, influencing how they interact with new interfaces.

To capitalize on this law, align your design elements with familiar patterns and conventions. While fostering creativity is important, adhering to well-established design paradigms ensures users can effortlessly navigate your website, leading to a more intuitive and satisfying experience.


7. The Law of Progressive Disclosure: Enhancing Engagement Through Unveiling


While the Law of Equilibrium explores visual balance, the Law of Progressive Disclosure addresses information balance. Users appreciate the gradual reveal of content, as it piques curiosity and maintains engagement.


Implement this law by incorporating interactive elements that unveil additional information when clicked or hovered over. This approach keeps users engaged and encourages exploration as they seek more details, fostering a deeper connection with your website.


As you embark on your next website design project, remember that true excellence lies in the intricate understanding and application of user-centric principles. By embracing these unconventional UX laws, you'll elevate your website's user experience and create a digital journey that resonates deeply with your audience.

59er Digital Team

Related Articles

Blog Link
Website
5 Min Read
5 Common Website Mistakes Costing Your B2B Business Sales
As a digital agency that has built websites for numerous B2B businesses, including industry leaders like Sojern and Detrack, we've witnessed firsthand how a well-designed website can impact a company's success. However, we've also seen countless businesses make common mistakes that hinder their ability to attract and convert customers.
Robert Smart
September 18, 2024
Blog Link
Growth Driven Design
5 Min Read
Data-Driven Decisions: Why Competitor Research is Key to Your Business Strategy
The business world is a constant dance. Companies must adapt and evolve to keep pace with changing customer preferences and industry trends. Operating on a hunch can lead to costly mistakes and missed opportunities. This is where data-driven decision-making steps in, offering a roadmap to navigate the ever-shifting market with clarity and confidence.
59er Digital Team
July 21, 2024
Blog Link
SaaS
5 Min Read
Why Lowballing Yourself When Pricing Your SaaS Hurts (And What You Can Do About It)
The SaaS (Software as a Service) landscape is teeming with innovation. New startups emerge daily, all vying for customer attention and a slice of the market pie. One tactic often employed by new businesses is aggressive undercutting - offering their product at a price significantly lower than established competitors.
59er Digital Team
May 20, 2024