UX/UI Design Principles

Designing Better Digital Experiences

UX (User Experience) and UI (User Interface) design have become increasingly important as organisations continue to prioritise digital experiences across websites, applications, and online platforms. While UI design focuses on the visual appearance of interfaces, UX design is concerned with how users interact with and navigate digital products.

"UI is the saddle, the stirrups, and the reins. UX is the feeling you get being able to ride the horse." — Dain Miller

Mobile-first design has become particularly important due to the increasing dominance of smartphone usage. Designers must ensure that interfaces remain functional and visually engaging across desktops, tablets, and mobile devices. This has encouraged simpler layouts, larger touch targets, and more streamlined navigation systems.

Accessibility also overlaps heavily with UX/UI design. Designers are now expected to consider contrast ratios, keyboard navigation, screen readers, and inclusive interface patterns as standard practice.

UX Design Institute recently updated their 7 fundamental user experience (UX) design principles all designers should know article to ensure that it's still relevant in 2026. It explores the following 7 UX principles:

• User-centricity

• Consistency

• Hierarchy

• Context

• User control

• Accessibility

• Usability

The medium may change, but the purpose of UX design remains the same. From websites and mobile apps to AI tools and virtual reality environments, successful design depends on creating experiences that feel intuitive, inclusive, and useful. By prioritising core user-centred design principles, designers can develop products that meet user needs while delivering meaningful and engaging experiences.

Did you know there's a great resource for staying up to date with all things UX? UX Planet  is a leading online publication dedicated to user experience (UX), user interface (UI), product design, and digital design. The platform publishes articles, tutorials, case studies, and industry insights from designers and UX professionals, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in the topic.