At times, user interface design can feel like leading the proverbial horse to water: You can get them there, but that does not mean they are going to drink (or correctly use the software). To be clear: this may be caused by inexperience or lack of exposure. For instance, a new business owner that has never had to use accounting software before may not understand the nuances of the different dashboards and options that a more experienced business owner would recognize. There is a learning curve that time will help with as the user begins to understand the concepts better. However, it is possible that there are misunderstandings within the interface—in which greater intentionality on the part of the developer will help prevent or fix.

In layman’s terms, an affordance is something that an object can do when interacted with. A signifier is a method of communicating an object’s affordance to users. To help you understand these terms in the context of software and website development, consider the affordances and signifiers of a physical object you may interact with.

For example, think of a metal tape measure. The metal tab on the tape indicates you should pull while the markings demonstrate measurement. If there is a string handle, you also know you can hang it on your wrist or store it in a hanging manner. These are signifiers that help indicate some of its affordances.

However, that is not the conclusive list of affordances. And if you give young children a tape measure, I guarantee they will find additional, non-traditional affordances—pinky promise. You can extend the tape several feet and put it in the lock mode then use it as a lightsaber. The strap can be used to create a swing projectile similar to a stone in a sling. While a tape measurer’s creator had specific usages in mind, its affordances are 100% determined by the user and how they interact with it.

Why does it matter? As previously discussed on our blog, it is vital to implement user-led icon sets in your development. This applies to all mediums and devices. However, using signifiers to properly communicate affordances becomes even more important on mobile devices for two key reasons:

1. Mobile devices do not have the hover state, limiting your ability to communicate about a feature, and

2. FileMaker Go does not support the swipe function that is otherwise a normal gesture on tables and smartphones.

These restrictions make a developer’s job harder when it comes to identifying actions for end users. They also contribute to the popular mobile-first mindset commonly implemented in development processes. If you know from the start that you will need mobile capabilities for your database, start there. As you work on desktop instances later, you can expand your signifier usage, rather than reducing it by developing in the opposite direction.

Intentionality is always vital to UI/UX work, but particularly so when working in mobile environments. However, this intentionality can lead to beautiful software solutions for your end users when embraced, rather than treated as a hindrance. And occasionally, the horse takes a drink of water.

PK Information is a FileMaker-certified development agency serving the Tampa Bay, Miami Lakes, and Knoxville regions. We believe that great software can change everything. Do you need UI/UX assistance from award-winning developers? Contact us today!

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