A user flow maps the path users take to accomplish goals. Flows diagram sequences of screens and interactions needed for users completing tasks.
Understanding flows helps design intuitive products. Flows identify necessary steps and potential improvements.
Flow Diagrams
Flow diagrams use standard symbols:
- Ovals/Circles: Start and end points
- Rectangles: Screens or steps
- Diamonds: Decision points (yes/no)
- Arrows: Flow direction
Arrows show progression through flows. Decisions branch into different paths.
Creating User Flows
Flows are created by:
- Identifying user goals
- Listing necessary steps
- Identifying decision points
- Drawing flow diagram
- Validating with users
Simple vs Complex Flows
Simple flows show main paths. Complex flows include edge cases and alternative paths.
Starting with simple flows prevents overwhelming. Adding complexity as needed.
Flow for Different Users
Different user types may follow different flows. Admin flows differ from user flows. New user onboarding flows differ from returning user flows.
Optimal Flows
Good flows minimise steps. Each step should be necessary. Unnecessary steps frustrate users.
Decision Points
Decision points (Yes/No?) branch flows. Keeping decision points to clear choices prevents confusing users.
Error Handling
Flows include error paths. What happens if users enter invalid data? Clear error messages and recovery paths improve experiences.
Validation
User testing with flows reveals issues. Do users understand where they are? Can they accomplish goals?
Flow vs Wireflow
User Flow: Shows which screens users visit (abstract).
Wireflow: Combines wireframes with flows (concrete). Shows screens and connections.
Wireflows are more detailed. Choosing between flows and wireflows depends on detail needed.
Microflows
Microflows are flows for small interactions. Entering passwords, confirming deletions, etc. Microflows ensure consistency.
Onboarding Flows
Onboarding flows guide new users. Effective onboarding flows are frictionless. They orient new users without overwhelming them.
Redesign Flows
When redesigning, mapping current flows reveals where users struggle. Redesigned flows address identified issues.
Mobile Flows
Mobile flows differ from desktop. Mobile screens are smaller. Touch interaction differs from mouse. Flows should account for mobile differences.
PixelForce's Flow Design
PixelForce designs user flows validating structures. Flows communicate how products work.
Flow Complexity
Overly complex flows are difficult to follow. Breaking flows into smaller chunks aids understanding.
Testing Flows
Flow testing with users ensures flows make sense. Users should navigate flows intuitively.
The Future
AI may optimise flows automatically finding most efficient paths. However, human judgment about user needs and preferences remains valuable.
User flows are essential for designing usable products. Clear flows guide users intuitively toward their goals.