Design is often one-way

Often when designing and interaction we’re so focused on it that we fail to consider the rest of the picture.

But almost always there is at least one complementary interaction to consider. And frequently, there is even more than one.

Without correct complementary actions, a feature is incomplete

And if it is incomplete, it’s true effectiveness cannot be measured accurately.

There are three ways to consider the complementary

• Data

  Take product categorization as an example.

  Firstly, a product has many categories. So, you’d add a categories dropdown to the products form.

  But, the complement is that a category has many products. Therefore, it’s a good idea to design that interaction as well.

• Action

  An order can be paid. But it can then be refunded.

  It can be delivered and then returned.

• Point of view

  An order is placed and it’s fulfilled.

  A message is sent but it’s also received.

By taking all three into account can you design a feature to its maximum potential.