UI/UX Principles #4: Aesthetic-Usability Effect

Beautiful design is perceived as more functional. Kurosu and Kashimura proved in 1995: Users rate aesthetically pleasing interfaces as more user-friendly, even with identical functionality.

Practical Application: Professional visual design increases trust and tolerance for minor usability problems. High-quality typography, thoughtful color palettes, and clean layouts create positive first impressions.

Result: Higher user satisfaction, longer dwell time, increased conversion rates. Investments in design pay off directly in better perception.