The principle that an interface should serve both novices and experts, offering shortcuts and accelerators that speed up interaction for experienced users without getting in the way of newcomers. It also lets people tailor frequent actions.
Synonyms
- accelerators
- shortcuts for experts
Related terms
- keyboard shortcut
- customization
- hick's law
- heuristic evaluation
In plain words
- let power users go fast while beginners still cope
- add shortcuts for people who know the app
Usage example
Offering keyboard shortcuts alongside menu items delivers flexibility and efficiency of use.
Don't confuse with…
- customizationCustomization is one way to achieve this heuristic; flexibility and efficiency of use also covers shortcuts and accelerators more broadly.
Categories
- Usability principles