I often find myself coming back to sites that have what I would call an “addictive” interface. A visual representation of data that keeps me coming back for more. I’ve recently been thinking about why certain interfaces are addictive and what elements make them addictive beyond the standard elements, like typography, layout, color and of course meaningful content. Here is my initial list.
The Ability to Manipulate Data
Interfaces that allow me to adjust ranges, check and uncheck variables or drag-and-drop different elements to new locations. Those that allow me to slice and dice data in lots of different ways.
Examples: Measure Map, Kayak, Amazon Diamond Search
Encourage Exploration
Interfaces that let me carve out my own experience and encourage exploration. Interfaces that show me what I expect to see but at the same time surround my experience with little clues and suggestions for exploration.
Examples: Flickr, NetFlix, Amazon
Facilitate Meaningful Interactions
Those elements in the interface that respond to my behaviors and let me be a part of the interface. Elements that let me move things around, add content and change content. Interfaces that seem to be “working” with me, that know what I trying to do and responds in meaningful ways.
Examples: Etsy, NikeID, Google News
Immediate Results with Endless Possibilities
Interfaces that make a good first impression. I “get” what the interface is telling me almost immediately. I know what to do, I know where to look, I know what it can do for me. However, when I’m ready the interface communicates clearly all it has to offer.
Examples: Pandora, Technorati, Bloglines