Good software

A lot has been written on this subject, and if you want the definitive guide on product design and software development (if there is such a thing), this is definitely not it. What this is however, is my personal vision on what’s important for building quality tech products and user experiences.

Good software…

Abstracts the logic

Software is only ever a tool, and brings value by simplifying processes. Good software solves real-world problems, abstracts the technical details, and allows the user to perform an action without having to think about what happens in the background.

Begs for interaction

Users shouldn’t feel overwhelmed or scared. Create an environment that makes users confident to be able to click around without having a fear of breaking things or accidentally removing data.

Giving users the confidence to go on their own exploratory journey will help with not needing much guidance or instruction.

• Add text where necessary. Rows of vague icons are scary.
• Illustrations and colour help interfaces feel airy.

Uses everyday terminology

Your users are probably not computer science graduates or developers, so don’t talk to them like they are. Instead, use friendly, welcoming language that’s easy to understand and succinct.

• ‘Preferences’ feel much more gentle and personal than ‘settings’.