As the digital world expands, illustrations for user interfaces have been one of the most popular and strong design trends for years. Designers choose to have illustrations as the one of the core visual elements within their UX/UI designs, especially for websites and mobiles. 

Illustration is defined as a visual interpretation of a concept, text or process. The aim of an illustration if to support, clarify or expand on ideas that is presented in another piece of information, usually text. The word ‘illustration’ itself means to throw light on something, so it’s clear that its main purpose is to help the user understand what is being presented to them. Illustrations have developed throughout the years, moving from print pieces like books, magazines and posters, to cartoons and video productions and finally, as it is most commonly used today, in digital illustration. They are used to improve the visual appeal of a website or app, preventing the user being overloaded with constant, boring text. 

 

 

While illustrations usually appear to be decorative elements, their main purpose is as a functional element. While it can make the design appear more stylish, it should make the message easier and clearer to understand. Different types of functional illustrations include hero and theme images, mascots and characters, onboarding tools, infographics and stickers. 

There are a number of reasons why designers choose to add illustration to their user interfaces. They create a solid foundation to the interface and a feeling of originality. In todays digital world there are endless different webpages and apps, so it is vital that designers find a way to stand out in a very big crowd. By adding graphics to their work, it adds style and shows creativity and this is a way to try and grab people’s attention. Illustrations can act as visual triggers for users and this allows them to gain the message quickly. This also means that the message could be understood worldwide, even through the language barrier. People can gain information from visual images a lot quicker when compared to text alone. As well as this, people tend to remember visual images for a longer time compared to text, which again is vital when trying to compete and stand out. Imagery and illustrations can help add some personality to a interface, creating characters and emojis for the design can help users understand the environment of the brand. It is much more visually appealing and would attract to a lot more users. As well as still imagery, illustration also opens up the possibility of including animations and videos within the interface, which again would add a lot more visual appeal and would be more memorable for users. 

 

 

An element of UI design, particularly interfaces, where illustrations are key is onboarding. This is a process to introduce users to a new product, app or feature. It is the design of a flow that gives the user a guided introduction to the product, set up preferences or highlight certain UI elements. Illustrations can be used to add a decorative element to this part of the interface, but can also be used in a demonstrative way so that the user can understand what they have to do or what has been changed more easily. Rewards are another element of interfaces that work well with illustrations as it would be more appealing for users to receive an image, something like a badge, than just reading that they have achieved something.

 

 

Illustrations are something that also helps attract certain types of users. For example, a more illustrative and cartoonish interface would be much more attractive to a younger audience. Whereas a more pulled back and reserved interface with illustrations like infographics would suit a more professional setting.

 

 

Interfaces are simply blocks of text without illustrations. They are a vital element to attract and keep users attention while also helping them understand the message and information on the interface.