Universal Principles of Design, Updated and Expanded Third Edition

054 Entry Point

A point of physical or attentional entry that sets the emotional tone for subsequent interactions.

People judge books by their covers, Internet sites by their first pages, and buildings by their lobbies. The initial impression of a system or environment greatly influences subsequent perceptions and attitudes, which then affects the quality of subsequent interactions. This impression is largely formed at the entry point to a system or environment. Errors in entry-point design annoy visitors who make it through or deter visitors altogether. A well-designed entry point promotes additional interaction.1

The key elements of good entry point design are:

• Minimal barriers — Barriers should not encumber entry points. Examples of barriers ...