The Value of Motion in UX

Here’s a quick outline of the value motion can add to user experiences.

I define motion as property transformation(s) (e.g. opacity, position, scale, shape, etc.) over time.

1. Motion communicates information to users.

   1. How?

      1. Explicitly (e.g. Educational onboarding and promos)

      2. Implicitly (e.g. See examples below)

   2. What information?

      1. That a system has registered a user’s interaction; that a system is responsive. (Motion confirms and reassures with crucial feedback responses)

      2. Hierarchy and relationships; how different UI elements relate to one another, establishing important mental models. (Motion links and clarifies)

      3. Element or experience behavior. (Motion hints)

      4. What the user should focus on and when. (Motion guides and directs attention)

      5. Brand values and attributes. (Motion expresses tone and perspective)

2. Motion adds dynamism.

   1. Motion helps experiences feel alive.

   2. Motion enables us to present pleasant and entertaining dynamism to users (i.e., “delight”).