User experience (UX) is a design process that creative teams use to develop products, all of which should provide meaningful and relevant experiences to audiences. The entire method of the design process involved the acquisition and integration of the product with the branding, usability, and functionality elements.

Although UX design plays a huge role in the digital world, it pays to remember that design first came with the written word. Print design was around long before the age of the digital space, and has taken over the world by storm—and it continues to do so today.

Print design remains a prevalent part of society, one that can still be found on flyers, posters, magazines, and even brochures. We also still make use of billboards and various product labels, all of which contribute to the seemingly quiet world of print.

Although print design isn’t considered a priority now due to the lack of proper evaluation methods, years of being around can teach us one or two regarding UX design. Modern designers are encouraged to consciously study print, especially since user experience still matters no matter the channel. Here’s how to improve your UX in print design endeavours:

‍Reason #1: Harness the power of a single focal point

‍Taking inspiration from magazines and newspapers, we can clearly see where designs set the focal points. Large headlines draw the reader’s attention, effectively capturing their interest to read more.

The same can be applied to websites and other visual designs, as this focal point contains the capture point of the text. The idea here is to guide the user well into your design, letting them know what they can expect and experience.

‍Reason #2: Strike a balance using grids

‍Print designers rely on a magic trick—the use of grid patterns. Content pages are usually laid out in some type of grid pattern, this helps keep a visual balance and comfort on the user’s end.

This can be used in a variety of ways, anywhere from web pages, to social media posts, down to something as simple as a banner. If the page is divided evenly into equal squares, you effectively help your users flow through the content well.

‍Reason #3: Ensure a consistent design.

‍When it comes to the design process, repetition is a crucial element. It allows users to remain comfortable throughout the visual journey, which begins by making use of the grid. This leads to consistency, but the power of a single focal point allows the typeface and content to command attention.

Keep in mind that no matter the medium, it’s important to never let your reader continually adjust their eyes to accommodate various design types and sizes. Consistency also encompasses the use of colours and words, all of which should exhibit harmony. With good UX in mind, you end up with a print design that resonates.

‍The Bottom Line

‍Print design continues to be a part of the design world, even decades after its first boom. Magazines, newspapers, and various marketing collateral still rely on print design to attract customers, and it’s important to remember that UX is a huge part of its success. In this day and age, everything caters to the audience—and should be applied in every single aspect.

To learn more about UX in print design, reach out to our team.