Designing Visual Interfaces: Communication Oriented Techniques

by Kevin E. Mullet, Darrell Sano

Ironically, many designers of graphical user interfaces are not always aware of the fundamental design rules and techniques that are applied routinely by other practitioners of communication-oriented visual design -- techniques that can be used to enhance the visual quality of GUIs, data displays, and multimedia documents. This volume focuses on design rules and techniques that are drawn from the rational, functionalist design aesthetic seen in modern graphic design, industrial design, interior design, and architecture -- and applies them to various graphical user interface problems experienced in commercial software development. Describes the basic design principles (the what and why), common errors, and practical step-by-step techniques (the how) in each of six major areas: elegance and simplicity; scale, contrast, and proportion; organization and visual structure; module and program; image and representation; and style. Focuses on techniques that will not only improve the aesthetics of the visual display, but, because they promote visual organization, clarity, and conciseness, will also enhance the usability of the product. Includes a catalog of common errors drawn from existing GUI applications and environments to illustrate practices that should be avoided in developing applications. For anyone responsible for designing, specifying, implementing, documenting, or managing the visual appearance of computer-based information displays.

Genres: Design, Reference, Nonfiction, Technology, Software, Academic, Computers

304 pages, Paperback

First published December 15, 1994

Reviews

[Ryan · Rating 4 out of 5]

one of the best books ever written on interface design. the authors take a methodical Bauhaus approach to explaining visual design. they supply ample case studies showing the good and bad of visual interface design. many of the examples are from os design, but are instructive for anyone doing web based interface design.

this does not cover interaction or strategic design.

[Hao Ca Vien · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great art and design ethic and philosophies to glean from the world of graphic arts and design. Must read for all developers in training and professionals to gain an appreciation for the aesthetics and beauty.

[Besim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was recommended to me by sidi Abdul Wahid Ovaice. It's a slow read but full of gems.

[Shawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good, but not as good as the Neilsen books.

[Rachel Y · Rating 2 out of 5]

This thing just feels really outdated. While Mullet covers a ton of great fundamentals and has a nice, clear writing style, the screenshots from the mid-90's are just too hard to digest.

[Aneel · Rating 1 out of 5]

Started. Was underwhelmed. May try again someday.

[Mouly · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best book on user interface design I have read. The examples may be old (from 90s), but the design principles are timeless.

[Roxane · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book offers sound and enduring design principles, even if the examples are outdated.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book with many examples differentiating the difference between design for beauty and design for effective communication.

[Jan]

Very good and practical book about the principles of visual design and user interface design in general.