Interaction patterns are proven, reusable solutions to common design challenges. By leveraging established patterns, designers can create intuitive experiences that build on existing user knowledge while maintaining consistency.
Common Interaction Pattern Categories
- Navigation patterns: Moving between content and sections
- Selection patterns: Choosing from multiple options
- Input patterns: Entering and modifying data
- Feedback patterns: Communicating system responses
- Organization patterns: Structuring and displaying content
- Social patterns: Supporting user-to-user interaction
- Commerce patterns: Facilitating transactions and purchases
Pattern Documentation Approach
- Problem description: What user need is addressed
- Solution overview: How the pattern works
- Usage guidelines: When to use this pattern
- Behavior specifications: Detailed interaction descriptions
- Variations: Different implementations for specific contexts
- Accessibility considerations: Inclusive implementation notes
- Examples: Real-world implementations
Pattern Selection Principles
- Choose established patterns for common problems
- Consider user expectations and mental models
- Evaluate competitive and platform conventions
- Test assumptions about pattern familiarity
- Adapt patterns to specific context needs
- Innovate only when existing patterns fail
- Document and share new pattern discoveries
Design Efficiency Impact
Well-documented interaction patterns can reduce design decision time by 40%, decrease development implementation time by 30%, and significantly improve usability through consistent, familiar interactions.
Expert Perspective
As interaction designer Jenifer Tidwell explains: "Patterns aren't a substitute for the creative process—they're tools that help solve common problems efficiently so designers can focus their creativity where it matters most."