So much of a mobile app’s success has to do with the functionality of the app and how it operates. However, equally as much importance lies with the user interface (UI) and how the app’s designs are made and laid out.

Following these 4 rules will get you and your app on the path to UI success.

1 - Button Size

Button size is important for pure usability of the app. If the buttons are too small and the user cannot press them, what is the point? Buttons should not be under 1 centimeter in size allowing the buttons to be large enough to be utilized. Small buttons will also decrease your conversion rate due to more difficult, thus slower, navigation. When a user is not able to navigate from page to page, they will give up and quit or even delete your app.

Another angle to the importance of button size is you can use the sizes of buttons to your advantage. For basic users and especially new users, button size can play a role in directing the user to the important areas of your app with larger or more pronounced buttons, thus attracting their attention.

2 - Button Location

Think about what buttons are easiest to touch when holding your mobile phone. For right handed people it would be the bottom right via the thumb and for left handed people it would be the bottom left corner for the same reason. Taking this into consideration, the most important buttons should be directed at the bottom corners (Hint: There are more right handed people than lefties).

Take into account also, the flow of motion if your app requires it. Sliders or other menu selectors should have a diagonal flow towards the bottom right rather than a plain horizontal flow at the top of the screen. Put the motion elements where they are most practical.

3 - Amount of Elements

We have all heard the phrase “less is more”, and the same idea applies to mobile app UI. Users will be confused if they are given too many options. Be strategic in what goes on each and every page in order to get the user to do exactly what you want them to do. Every input option should be valuable. If it is not, take it out. There should never be more than 10 interactive elements on one page at any time. This will allow the user to navigate the app without being confused and overwhelmed.

4 - First Launch Experience

A big win is even getting the user to download and open your app, but that is only the beginning in creating a perennial user. You must connect with the user instantly in allowing them to figure out where they are and what they can do at any given moment within the app, but especially the first few screens. If you can answer these questions for the user right off the bat, you are in good shape and more likely to keep the user around.