The 60-30-10 rule in UX design is a guideline that helps designers create visually appealing interfaces by balancing color usage. It suggests using 60% of a dominant color, 30% of a secondary color, and 10% of an accent color. This approach ensures a harmonious design that enhances user experience by drawing attention to key elements.

What Is the 60-30-10 Rule in UX Design?

The 60-30-10 rule is a popular design principle that originates from interior design but has been effectively adapted for UX design. It provides a simple yet powerful framework for creating balanced and aesthetically pleasing interfaces. By allocating colors in a 60%, 30%, and 10% distribution, designers can guide users’ attention and improve the overall usability of a digital product.

Why Is the 60-30-10 Rule Important?

• Visual Hierarchy: By using a dominant color for 60% of the design, you establish a visual foundation. The secondary color (30%) supports this foundation, while the accent color (10%) highlights important elements.
• User Engagement: A well-balanced color scheme can make a design more engaging and easier to navigate, thus improving user satisfaction.
• Brand Consistency: This rule helps maintain brand consistency by ensuring that your primary brand color is prominent, while secondary and accent colors complement it.

How to Apply the 60-30-10 Rule in UX Design?

1. Choose a Dominant Color: This should cover 60% of your design and typically aligns with your brand’s primary color. Use it for backgrounds or large areas.
2. Select a Secondary Color: Allocate 30% to a secondary color that complements the dominant color. Use it for UI elements like sidebars or secondary buttons.
3. Pick an Accent Color: The remaining 10% is for an accent color, used sparingly to draw attention to critical actions or information, such as call-to-action buttons.

Practical Example of the 60-30-10 Rule

Imagine designing a website for a tech startup with a blue brand color:

• 60% Blue: Use blue for the background or large sections to establish a cohesive look.
• 30% Gray: Apply gray for secondary elements like navigation bars or footers.
• 10% Orange: Use orange for call-to-action buttons or important notifications to catch the user’s eye.

Benefits of the 60-30-10 Rule

• Simplicity: This rule simplifies the color selection process, making it easier for designers to create appealing interfaces.
• Focus: It naturally directs user focus to the most important elements, enhancing usability.
• Consistency: Ensures that the design maintains a consistent look and feel, which is crucial for brand identity.

People Also Ask

What Are Some Common Mistakes in Using the 60-30-10 Rule?

A common mistake is using colors that clash, which can overwhelm users. Ensure all colors complement each other and align with your brand identity. Another error is overusing the accent color, which can dilute its impact.

Can the 60-30-10 Rule Be Applied to Mobile Design?

Yes, the 60-30-10 rule is versatile and can be adapted for mobile interfaces. Given the smaller screen size, it’s crucial to choose colors that enhance readability and interaction.

How Does the 60-30-10 Rule Affect Accessibility?

When applying this rule, consider color contrast to ensure accessibility. Use tools like color contrast checkers to verify that text is readable against background colors, adhering to WCAG guidelines.

Is the 60-30-10 Rule Suitable for All Types of Websites?

While the 60-30-10 rule is widely applicable, it may not suit all websites, especially those requiring a more complex color scheme, like e-commerce sites. In such cases, adapt the rule to fit specific needs.

How Can I Test the Effectiveness of the 60-30-10 Rule?

Conduct user testing to gather feedback on your color scheme. A/B testing can help determine if the chosen colors improve user engagement and conversion rates.

Conclusion

The 60-30-10 rule in UX design is a valuable tool for creating visually appealing and user-friendly interfaces. By strategically distributing colors, designers can enhance usability, maintain brand consistency, and improve user engagement. Remember to consider accessibility and usability when selecting colors, and adjust the rule as needed to fit the specific context of your design project. For more insights on improving user experience, explore topics like design thinking and user-centered design.