Microinteractions are one of the hottest design trends at the moment. Designers love them because they enhance the user experience, provide feedback, and explain how things work. People love them because they are fun, entertaining, and easy to consume. But, just like all good design trends, microinteractions have a time and a place. Let’s learn more about this latest UX trend and how you can use it to better your content.
Understanding the Simplicity of Microinteractions
Microinteractions are small product moments that are related to ONE task. For example, a user may see a microinteraction when rating an app on a mobile device. When the user completes the task, they are provided with a microinteraction that adds an element of surprise and delight. The user feels good about completing the action and shares a positive moment with the brand.
Here are a few examples of when microinteractions can be used.
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Changing a setting on a site
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Hovering over an image
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Doing an online search
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Highlighting changes to an app
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Rating a song or article
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Setting a status message
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Liking a social media post
What are the Benefits to Using Microinteractions?
Microinteractions boost the user experience, plain and simple. This small design element is powerful and can make all the difference between successful and unsuccessful interactions. Below are a few reasons why you should care about microinteractions.
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Give users control by providing feedback
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Offer guidance to help users stay on track
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Create a more rewarding experience
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Offer more opportunities for engagement
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Improve on-site navigation
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Encourage liking, sharing, and commenting
How to Make Your Microinteractions Awesome
Making microinteractions awesome doesn’t have to be hard, but you do need to think things through! Here are a few tips to consider when placing microinteractions into your design.
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Quick response. Microinteractions should be activated almost instantaneously. Otherwise, you run the risk of having the interaction be separate from the action – and just plain annoying.
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Original. There’s no need to be clever with your microinteraction. If the animation is too complex, it can look like you’re trying too hard. Keep it simple and in line with what your users expect.
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Simple and natural. Animations should align with human behavior. When deciding on which microinteractions to use, consider what a user would do and what animations would flow naturally.
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Helpful and relatable. Microinteractions are sometimes used to share information, so be sure that your copy matches what your users are doing at the moment. It should speak in human terms – not robotic or automated.
There is no question that microinteractions should be included in your design. They are helpful, engaging, and entertaining, which is why users love them. Plus, you can use these small animations to keep customers in the funnel as they share positive, memorable experiences with your brand.
