Visual Hierarchy Can Make or Break a Good User Experience (Here's How)

Clutter causes confusion.  

And on the other hand, order is comforting. 

Suppose you enter a room after a long tiring day, and all you see is clutter. Wouldn't that be your last straw? In the same way, if a user opens an app for the first time, and all they see is clutter and chaos, be rest assured that the app won't stay another minute on their mobile device. 

Now, imagine an opposite scenario where a user opens your app and the elements have an aesthetic hierarchy to them, the right message catches their attention, and they know exactly what to look at and where to click. They are more likely to explore it further and possibly take an action, for instance, add something to the cart. 

That, for you, is Visual Hierarchy and its implications. A successful app, much like a successful company, has order, clear communication, and a hierarchy.  

So, let's break it down. 

What is Visual Hierarchy? 

Visual hierarchy refers to the arrangement of elements in a design in a hierarchal manner that communicates the relative importance of each element. It influences how the human eye perceives information and makes sense of it. The visual hierarchy helps guide the user's attention, makes navigating through an app easier for users, and is simply, aesthetic.  

Why is Visual Hierarchy Important?  

Visual hierarchy can make or break a good user experience. And that is why it is of utmost importance. If the elements in your Mobile App are not arranged in a logical manner, users may feel perplexed and overwhelmed and most likely close the app. Visual hierarchy helps to create a clear and organized layout that guides the user's attention and improves the user experience. It also influences users to take actions you wish them to. 

• Communicates Important Information 
• Improves User Experience 
• Creates Focus and Balance 
• Establishes Brand Identity 
• Enhances Readability 
• Supports scanning and skimming 
• Facilitates decision making 
• Enhances aesthetics 

Visual Hierarchy Principals to Follow: 

 
Size and Scale- Size matters in the visual hierarchy, and acts as a cue for users to focus on the more important elements first. The larger an element, the more important it appears. Using size and scale, you can guide the user's attention to actions you want them to take.  

Color- Color psychology is real, and you can leverage it to create a desirable user experience. Color is a powerful tool in creating a visual hierarchy. Know how to play with them. For instance, use brighter and more contrasting colors to attract the user's attention and create a sense of importance.  

Contrast - Differentiation creates impact. Contrast helps to create separation between elements, making it easier for the user to distinguish between them and know what to do. And color, size, and typography help with it. 

Alignment - A Mobile App without order might be unsettling for users. Alignment creates a sense of order and structure, making it easier for the user to understand the app layout. Elements aligned with each other appear more cohesive.  

Typography - Every word counts, but which words count for more can be communicated through typography. It helps create a visual hierarchy using different font sizes, weights, and styles. For instance, bold and larger fonts attract attention, while smaller fonts create hierarchy. 

Final Word.  

Visual hierarchy can make or break a good user experience. Size, scale, color, contrast, alignment, and typography all play a crucial role in a user's experience with your app and must be perfected to detail. 

Want to know more about Visual Hierarchy and how its imperative for successful mobile app development? Connect with us! At Hashbrown Systems, we have the experience and Extensive Portfolio of Mobile Apps it takes to design, develop and maintain Mobile Apps. Explore our Mobile Development Capabilities!