Ask HN: Best book/resource on modern UI/UX | Hacker News Reader

Ask HN: Best book/resource on modern UI/UX

10 pointsblfr7 comments

I am joining a new company, one primarily focused on UI/UX. My role will be on the backend and around infrastructure but since this is a core thing for them, I want to know more.

In particular, what is the best book/resource you would recommend for learning about modern UI/UX: principles, design methodology, practical tips?

It's important that it's not some foundational text from Bell Labs written in the 60s, although obviously nice if it mentioned a bit of history, but rather something focused on modern stuff, especially mobile apps. How is it actually done today.

Which technologies should I have at least cursory knowledge of, which tools are widely used, which are hip, and which are on the COBOL path? What is the modern approach to measuring and improving user experience?

I would say the Design of Everyday Things by Don Norman. I've also heard but haven't read yet Don't Make Me Think by Steve Krug is really good too.

While "the Design of Everyday Things" is as close as you can get to a bible for ergonomics, and design for human interaction, it was published in 1988. It is absolutely worth reading, it will make you a better designer, however it will not give you insight into "modern UX design".

There was an updated version put out in 2013. I read it a couple years ago and it's helped me plenty.

Gosh, I did not know that. I read it in about 2005/06, will have to purchase a new copy!

I quite like: https://www.refactoringui.com/

This is really a fantastic resource for someone who wants the basics, with illustrations, without having to fully dive into the field.

I might also add that you can basically find researched best practices on any UX/UI thing by adding "NN" or "Nielsen Norman" to a search. They're a UX research group. Like "modal nn" or "internationalization nn" etc. Those articles tend to be more detailed than this book, and can often be a valuable followup resource.

I interviewed a few people with just this question btw :)

UX expert Cory Lebson shares the best books for starting in UX design and research - https://shepherd.com/best-books/start-in-user-experience-ux-...

more here too https://shepherd.com/bookshelf/user-interface-design

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