Using Animations in Mobile Apps to Improve UI/UX

When we use an app, the first thing that we come across is the user interface. If the user interface is boring, complex, not user friendly, or dull then the user will not be inclined to use an app. However, if the UI/UX of the app is attractive, easy to navigate, user friendly, informative then the user will be inclined to use the app. One way to add some much needed uniqueness to apps is by adding animations. From simple to complex animations, use of these help in enhancing the app. Elements can be animated so that they are attractive and user friendly.

Since there are many apps in the market, a well-designed app can only add to business and help the app to stand out among its competitors. Adding animations to the UI will help in this. It add some much needed ammunition to the app’s appeal to customers. Once customers experience the apps, they tend to be loyal to an app that they are comfortable in using and navigating. More information can be found on Smashing Magazine’s article, Functional Animation in UX design.

(Image credit: thedesigninspiration.com)

How does in-app animation help in improving user experience and implementing tasks?

There are many ways in which in-app animations help in improving user experience and implementing tasks:

•  By equipping the app to provide instant responses to the customer’s actions on the app

•  By enhancing the interaction within the app and encouraging the customer to get used to the app

•  By providing information about the system and the status of the user

•  By enhancing the appeal of the app and making it stand out against competitors

•  By building on customer loyalty

It therefore, becomes important to follow the principles of UI/UX design so that the animations within the app are implemented appropriately.

What are the main elements of good, well-executed animations?

Let us look at the elements of good, well-executed animations for mobile app use:

Animations should be designed keeping in mind OS requirements

It is essential that animations for mobile apps be designed and implemented keeping in mind and in accordance with the official OS requirements (specially, iOS HIG and Android UI Guidelines) that will ensure smooth usability of the app on the mobile platform. These requirements should be kept in mind to ensure that the apps fit into the UI. While apps should be unique and new, it is important to keep in mind that the developers of the apps should not change things up more than necessary.

Clear and focussed animation is the need of the day

Rather than focussing on innovation, it is important to focus on clarity and intuition. The app should add on to and not distract away from the UI and the other elements of the app. Apps which are not user-friendly and focussed may lead to user frustration on using the app which can further lead to discontinued used of the app.

Use of well thought out and meaningful animations

Apps should be designed in a way that they make navigation easy. Therefore, it follows that apps should also use animations which are meaningful. Animation of the elements should be such that they add value to the navigation of the site. An example is that on clicking the help icon, a wizard or mascot can offer help to the users.

Therefore use of animations is great for the app and helps in building an attractive and easy UI UX design but while using animations in apps, it should be ensured that apps are user friendly and add to the appeal of the app.