Consistency

Definition

Consistency is the use of uniform patternsglossary×PatternA reusable solution to a common design problem.Open glossary term→, behavioursglossary×BehaviourBehaviour refers to how users interact with a system, including actions, patterns, and responses.Open glossary term→, and visual elements across a product to create familiarity and predictabilityglossary×PredictabilityPredictability refers to how well users can anticipate what will happen when they interact with a system.Open glossary term→. It helps users learn once and apply that knowledge throughout the experience.

In practice

Used to maintain consistent layoutsglossary×LayoutLayout is the arrangement of elements on a page or screen, determining how content is organised and presented. It influences readability, usability, and overall experience.Open glossary term→, interactionsglossary×InteractionInteraction refers to any action a user takes within a product and how the system responds. It includes clicks, taps, gestures, and inputs that drive the user experience.Open glossary term→, and terminology across screens and featuresglossary×FeatureA feature is a specific piece of functionality within a product that delivers value to users. It represents something users can do or experience as part of the overall product.Open glossary term→.

The reality

Inconsistency forces users to relearn the product over and over again.

Plain English

Keeping things the same so users know what to expect.