In his book, “Don’t Make Me Think, Revisited,” Steve Krug presents the idea that in order to create a user-friendly website or application, designers must put themselves in the user’s shoes and think about what they would want from the experience. The book is a guide to designing for the web with a focus on usability and user experience (UX).
Chapter 1: The Mindset
In the first chapter, Krug introduces the idea that designing for the web is not just about creating a visually appealing interface, but also about making sure that the user can easily find what they are looking for and complete their tasks. He emphasizes the importance of thinking like a user and putting yourself in their shoes.
Chapter 2: The Basics
In this chapter, Krug covers some of the basics of web design, such as layout, typography, and color. He emphasizes the importance of using clear and easy-to-read fonts, and recommends using color sparingly and thoughtfully. Krug also stresses the importance of having a consistent layout that is easy to navigate.
Chapter 3: Navigation
Navigation is a critical component of any website or application, and Krug devotes an entire chapter to the topic. He recommends using clear and concise language for menu items, and avoiding jargon or technical terms that might confuse users. Krug also emphasizes the importance of providing users with a clear sense of where they are on the site and how to get to where they want to go.
Chapter 4: Forms
Forms are a common feature of many websites, and Krug provides guidance on how to design them in a way that is user-friendly. He recommends keeping forms as simple as possible, and providing clear instructions on what information is required. Krug also emphasizes the importance of providing users with feedback on their actions, such as indicating which fields have been completed correctly.
Chapter 5: Content
In this chapter, Krug discusses the importance of providing clear and concise content that is easy for users to understand. He recommends using short paragraphs, clear headings, and bullet points to break up information and make it easier to read. Krug also emphasizes the importance of organizing content in a logical and intuitive way.
Chapter 6: Accessibility
Krug devotes a chapter to the importance of designing for accessibility, which means considering the needs of users with disabilities. He provides guidance on how to use color contrast, font size, and other design elements to make content more accessible. Krug also emphasizes the importance of providing alternative text for images and other non-text content.
Chapter 7: Mobile
With the rise of mobile devices, it is critical for designers to consider how their websites or applications will look and function on smaller screens. Krug provides guidance on how to design for mobile, including using responsive design and optimizing images and other content for smaller screens.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Don’t Make Me Think, Revisited” is a valuable resource for anyone looking to design a user-friendly website or application. Krug’s guidance on usability and user experience is practical and actionable, and his focus on putting yourself in the user’s shoes is a key principle that designers should keep in mind. Whether you are a seasoned designer or just starting out, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to create a great user experience.
Interested in reading the whole book?
Buy the book “Don’t Make Me Think, Revisited” on Amazon
