I feel that my design is becoming better and better as time goes on. Things magically start to align in ways I hadn’t seen before. Inspiration is no longer a thing to clone, but a tool to see new ways of doing things. Usability isn’t just about keeping link colors consistent, so much more.

Here’s an example from today. I’m working on a paper request form for T-Shirts. BORING? Not so. I challenged myself to see this form in a new way. How can I improve the usability of this simple 1/4 sheet of paper?

Summary: A person can request 1 of 5 shirts that will be available at a trade show booth. They can choose a size, and they can choose a product which has a predetermined shirt color. These shirts are displayed on some banner stands being displayed around the booth.

1. Lets start by giving plenty of room for things.
2. Why not add a visual guide for the size of the T-Shirt for a quicker read.
3. Since there are different shirts available, clarify with visual cues!

With just a few improvements in place, this form really starts to stand out.

We can even arrange the elements in such a so people are more likely to start filling out the form, and therefore, more inclined to finish it. Notice, the easiest parts are first. First size, then the product/color, then the complex information. Once we’ve hooked them, they’ll be inclined to finish!

Every project can be a canvas to create something cool, even if it’s a form. I try to remember that when designing things.

< Back to the blog home