Usability Trends to Watch in 2021 and Beyond
The world of usability design is constantly evolving, with new trends emerging each year that shape the way we interact with digital products and services. As we look ahead to 2021 and beyond, there are several key trends that are set to have a major impact on the field of usability design. In this article, we will explore these trends and discuss how they are likely to shape the future of digital experiences.
1. Dark Mode
One of the most noticeable usability trends in recent years has been the rise of dark mode. Dark mode is a design feature that allows users to switch the color scheme of an app or website to a darker, more muted palette. This not only gives users more control over their viewing experience but also has several usability benefits. Dark mode has been shown to reduce eye strain, increase battery life on mobile devices, and improve visibility in low-light environments. As a result, dark mode has become increasingly popular with users and is likely to continue to be a major trend in usability design in 2021 and beyond.
2. Voice User Interfaces
Voice user interfaces (VUIs) have been around for a while, but recent advances in artificial intelligence and natural language processing have made them more powerful and intuitive than ever. VUIs allow users to interact with digital products using spoken commands, rather than traditional touch-based interfaces. This can be especially useful for users with disabilities or those who are unable to use traditional input methods. In 2021 and beyond, we can expect to see more digital products incorporating VUIs, as they offer a more natural and seamless user experience.
3. Personalization
Personalization is another key trend in usability design that is set to continue to grow in importance in 2021 and beyond. Personalization involves tailoring the user experience to the individual preferences and behavior of each user. This can include customizing the content, layout, and features of a digital product based on the user’s past interactions and preferences. Personalization not only improves the user experience but also helps to build stronger relationships between users and digital products. In the coming years, we can expect to see more digital products incorporating personalization features to create more engaging and relevant user experiences.
4. Augmented Reality
Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that overlays digital information onto the real world, creating a mixed-reality experience. AR has been used in gaming and entertainment for years, but in 2021 and beyond, we can expect to see more digital products incorporating AR to enhance usability. For example, AR can be used to provide users with real-time information about their surroundings, such as directions or product information. This can help to improve the user experience and make digital products more interactive and engaging. As AR technology continues to advance, we can expect to see more innovative uses of AR in usability design.
5. Accessibility
Accessibility has always been a key consideration in usability design, but in recent years there has been a growing focus on making digital products more inclusive and accessible to all users. In 2021 and beyond, we can expect to see more emphasis on accessibility features in digital products, such as improved screen reader compatibility, color contrast options, and keyboard navigation support. Making digital products more accessible not only benefits users with disabilities but also improves the overall user experience for all users. As awareness of accessibility issues grows, we can expect to see more digital products prioritizing accessibility in their usability design.
In conclusion, the field of usability design is constantly evolving, with new trends shaping the way we interact with digital products and services. In 2021 and beyond, we can expect to see key trends such as dark mode, voice user interfaces, personalization, augmented reality, and accessibility having a major impact on the future of usability design. By staying up to date with these trends and incorporating them into their design practices, usability professionals can create more engaging, intuitive, and inclusive digital experiences for users around the world.
