Glossaries
Fitts Law
What is Fitts' Law?
Fitts' Law is a predictive model in human-computer interaction that describes the time required to rapidly move to a target area, as a function of the distance to the target and the size of the target.
Synonyms: Fitts's Law, Fitts Law, Law of Target Acquisition
How Fitts' Law Works in User Interface Design
Fitts' Law states that the time to acquire a target is a function of the distance to and size of the target. In user interface design, this means that:
- Larger targets are easier to select quickly
- Targets closer to the user's current position are faster to reach
- Edge and corner areas of the screen are considered to have "infinite" size and are therefore easiest to select
Why Fitts' Law is Important in User Research
Understanding Fitts' Law is crucial for creating efficient and user-friendly interfaces:
- It helps designers optimize the placement and size of interactive elements
- It informs the design of menus, buttons, and other clickable items
- It contributes to improved user experience by reducing user effort and increasing speed of interaction
Examples of Fitts' Law in Action
- The Windows Start button is placed in the corner for easy access
- Mobile app menus often feature larger, finger-friendly buttons
- Important actions like "Send" in email clients are typically larger and more prominent
- The Apple menu is always in the top-left corner of the screen on Mac OS
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who created Fitts' Law?: Fitts' Law was formulated by Paul Fitts in 1954.
- Does Fitts' Law apply to touchscreens?: Yes, Fitts' Law is applicable to touchscreen interfaces, though some modifications may be necessary due to the nature of touch input.
- How can I test for Fitts' Law in my designs?: You can conduct usability tests measuring the time it takes users to reach and select different UI elements in your interface.
- Is Fitts' Law still relevant in modern UI design?: Absolutely. Despite advances in technology, the fundamental principles of Fitts' Law remain crucial in creating efficient user interfaces.