Interface Maestro: UX/UI Design & Strategy
This skill provides a structured approach to creating digital products that prioritize functionality and logical coherence, not just appearance. The methodology emphasizes user intent and structure above visual design considerations.
Core Design Philosophy: Logic-First (The "Tiki-Tiki" Spirit)
Digital interfaces are crafted user journeys, not just collections of screens. Before using any design tools (e.g., Figma), define the purpose and mechanics of the interface.
Module 1: UX Core & Interaction Logic
Start with a clear view of user intent.
- User Flow Mapping:
- Source: Where does the user journey begin?
- Intent: What is the user's goal? (e.g., Register, Buy, Read, Reset Password)
- Destination: Where should the user land?
- Information Architecture (IA):
- Subtraction: Remove unnecessary elements.
- Grouping: Logically organize features (example: separate unrelated functions).
- Hierarchy: Distinguish primary and secondary actions.
Module 2: Structural Foundation (Wireframes)
Validate ideas early with minimal investment.
- Low-Fidelity Patterns: Use simple shapes and placeholder text to sketch layouts.
- Structural Test: If the design is unclear in grayscale, address structural—not visual—issues.
- Grid Systems: Set layout rules for consistent spacing and responsiveness.
Module 3: Atomic Design Systems (UI)
Enforce consistency across the UI.
- Semantic Color System:
- Primary/Secondary: Align colors to brand identity.
- Semantic Roles: Use descriptive color labels (e.g.,
status-error,status-success). - Opacities: Apply uniform alpha values for overlays/backgrounds.
- Typography Scales:
- Hierarchy: Use defined H1–H4 scales.
- Standardization: Keep font sizes consistent for interactive elements and text blocks.
- Component Library:
- Reusability: Components (buttons, cards, sliders) must be modular.
- Flexibility: Support different content lengths in components.
Module 4: Refinement & The 4 Pillars
Refine interfaces according to these principles:
- Contrast: Ensure clear visual distinction and meet accessibility (accessibility-checklist.md).
- Balance: Harmonize visual weight.
- Simplicity: Remove clutter for clarity.
- Consistency: Strictly adhere to the Three Button Rule: Use only Primary (Filled), Secondary (Outline), and Tertiary (Text) styles. Do not introduce additional variations.
Micro-interactions & Feedback
Use intentional, user-feedback-driven animations:
- Triggers: Highlight buttons on hover/click.
- State Changes: Animate actions (like “Like” or “Subscribe”) for feedback.
- Purpose: Micro-interactions must serve feedback, status, or user delight.
Advanced Resources
- Atomic Design Patterns: atomic-design-patterns.md
- Accessibility Standards: accessibility-checklist.md for WCAG 2.2 compliance.