Consistency


 * Consistency**

Consistency describes a harmony of objects or features to each other and on a whole. It is a logical agreement and coherence among parts that can be recognized through similar and/or reoccurring patterns or signs.


 * Consistency as a tool for interactive design is essential.**

In designing for the web, maintaining a consistent approach to elements of design such as layout and navigation, allowed users to quickly adapt to your design and confidently predict the location of information and navigation controls throughout the site.

In some cases, existing general practice constrains what you can do. Users approach these devices with an understanding of how they work, take, for instance, everyday household objects such as light switches, books, or a toothbrush. Consistency in their design makes it possible for these items to be used without deliberation. The same holds true in web design. For example, people generally expect the location of the search field to be in the upper right corner, and the navigation links in the left column. These design conventions allow for a point of reference to become oriented more quickly and effectively [[|1]]. Without them, the user experience becomes confusing, misleading, and undesirable.

Above: Here we see the MoMA has designed a web site with a number of consistencies in its design, including he search field to be in the upper right corner, and the navigation links in the left column [ [|1]].

A consistent look and feel is not only beneficial for the user but the designer as well. It removes the need to make the same decision over and over again, making writing, publishing and maintenance easier, and enables the use of templates and pre-defined snippets of code [[|2]].

[1] Universal Usability: Access by Design. "Apply a Consistent Design." 2006. October 9, 2007. http://universalusability.com/access_by_design/page_layout/consistent.html

[2] Gaffney, Gerry. “Why Consistency is Critical.” http://www.sitepoint.com/article/why-consistency-is-critical