Simplify Design, User Choices
Simple is something that is easily understood or done. Simplicity is subjective, things that appear simple for one person will not be by others. Generally, we form our personal opinion regarding any process being simple or complex, in three quick ways. The first is how easy we can understand what needs to be done. The second is how much time and effort is needed. The third is how enjoyable it is. Removing difficulties for the users will help us move towards simplicity.
When thinking about simplicity, we need to think about the opposite side of the spectrum, complexity. There are several factors that tend to complicate even the simplest task. They should be avoided in product design as much as possible. Such things as information overload, too many choices, and even repetitive steps will increase complexity for the user.
In order to keep things simple, focus on a single objective. If we want our product to be simple we need to define a core value and identify who is this product really for. Remove anything and everything that is not needed. The easiest way to achieve simplicity is through reduction. Be careful what you remove, something that appears to be secondary at first glance may be necessary.
Present data in a meaningful way. When we know what users are interested in, help them with visual representation rather than a bunch of numbers. We can always show more information on demand. Try to extract the meaningful from the data you have and put it in front of the user.
Simplify choices for users. Users bombarded with too many choices have to take time to interpret and decide, giving them work they don’t want. Hick's Law predicts that the time and the effort it takes to make a decision increases with the number of options. So if we want our user experience to feel simple, we need to support quick decision making as much as possible. Eliminate the need to choose when is not required, guide and handhold user. When choices can't be avoided, try to limit them. Provide a recommendation or share statistics of what is most preferred by other customers. Clearly communicate to the user what the key difference between proposed options.
When we break down complex choices to groups of simple choices, we make the user "work" less and that, in turn, makes the user experience more enjoyable. If possible, limit the choices, if not, group or present the choices in a logical manner. If neither can be avoided, recommend a choice for the user. This will lead to a more pleasant user experience.