Types of Flow – A Quick Reference

Bob Moll, Thursday, April 27, 2006 @ 3:36 pm

How does the concept of flow manifest in an application? We usually look at three different aspects of flow during the design process.

The first is efficiency. Often we are seeking the use of an application to save us time in accomplishing what we have to do. In the user’s eyes, efficiency gains are often tied to satisfaction and are frequently where flow starts.

The second aspect of flow is hybrid navigation. Most applications of moderate or greater complexity will require a combination of linear and non-linear activities. It is important that the designer be able to empower each activity while keeping the overall scheme consistent and intuitive.

The third aspect of flow is comfort. When the interaction with a product is comfortable and natural, the product starts working at an emotional level. In technology-based products, accomplishing comfort in the design can be a significant differentiator in the marketplace.

Related posts:

1. Towards a concept of flow–UXD perspectives
2. Flow in Applications
3. Use a Task Flow to Show “How do I ___?”
4. Get in the Flow (Task Flow that is)
5. A Good Reference – Jenifer Tidwell’s “Designing Interfaces”

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