What is a web user interface?
A web user interface permits users to interact with software and other content running through a web browser. The interface is a connection point between human users and the computer system itself. Users need interfaces to navigate, view, and consume the presentation of information.
Businesses use website builders to create clean, easy-to-use interface experiences for their desired users. These tools often provide domain name offerings, search engine optimization (SEO), analytics, e-commerce plugins, and mobile web functionality.
Types of web user interfaces
Different kinds of web user interfaces exist for specific users and purposes. Some of the common types to be aware of are:
- Graphical user interface: A graphical user interface (GUI) lets individuals interact with information through graphics, icons, and other visual elements. They’re suitable for non-technical users and offer immediate visual feedback as objects change in color, size, or visibility upon interaction.
- Touch user interface: Designed so users can interact with the information using their fingers. Touch user interfaces are a standard option for small, portable devices such as phones or tablets. They’re ideal for individuals across a wide range of age groups.
- Menu-driven interface: Interfaces that employ a series of menus for users to select from are known as menu-driven interfaces. Individuals choose from multiple menus until they reach a desired location or outcome. They’re best for technology novices due to their simplistic nature and limited menu selections.
- Command-line interface: Text-based interfaces for above-average technical operating system users are known as command-line interfaces. They typically require experience or programming skills to navigate.
Basic elements of web user interfaces
Design choices are essential for creating good user experiences. Fortunately, there are many interface elements to choose from.
These elements include but are not limited to:
- Input controls: They allow website creators to input information into the system. Examples of input controls are checkboxes, dropdown lists, radio buttons, toggles, and date pickers.
- Navigational components: As the name suggests, navigational components help individuals navigate a site. Types of navigational components include search fields, pagination, breadcrumb locators, sliders, and carousels.
- Information components: These components provide specific information to individuals. Examples include notifications, progress bars, and message boxes.
- Containers: This method organizes information together in one place. Accordions, which allow users to expand and collapse content sections, are a popular example of a container.
Benefits of well-designed web user interfaces
A well-designed web user interface can make or break a user experience. A well-designed interface provides specific benefits, including:
- Repeat visitors: Those who interact with a good design will likely return and engage with it again. This can be part of a larger brand loyalty strategy for businesses.
- Increased traffic: A well-designed interface that quickly provides users with what they’re looking for seamlessly supports growth. Users may tell others to visit the site, and the overall positive experience can lead to organic growth over time.
- Better user interactions: Appealing, unique, and easy-to-use designs create better user interactions. In turn, users may spend more time on a page or visit more pages on a site. More time spent has the potential to lead to increased revenue.
Web user interface best practices
An effective web user interface design depends on the website, the intended audience, and the goals of each page. Businesses should generally follow best practices to design web user interfaces users will love.
- Research the intended audience. Understanding user behavior requires in-depth user and design research. During the planning process, examine who will use the website, what they’re looking for, and the intended use cases.
- Keep it consistent. Use branding, typography, components, and templates to keep the interface consistent across pages and actions. Similarly, make actions consistent to eliminate confusion and help users quickly learn their way around.
- Make the site accessible and inclusive. Think about all user types when planning web user interface designs. For example, consider how colors might impact colorblind individuals.
- Design with responsiveness in mind. Users access websites across many devices, including computers, smartphones, and tablets. Keep mobile optimization in mind, so the website is responsive and adaptable to various screen sizes to avoid frustrating users.
Alyssa Towns
Alyssa Towns works in communications and change management and is a freelance writer for G2. She mainly writes SaaS, productivity, and career-adjacent content. In her spare time, Alyssa is either enjoying a new restaurant with her husband, playing with her Bengal cats Yeti and Yowie, adventuring outdoors, or reading a book from her TBR list.
