In the early 1980s, GUIs were revolutionary, providing an intuitive alternative to command-line interfaces. Apple’s Macintosh (1984) and Microsoft Windows (1985) introduced key elements that shaped modern interfaces, including: the introduction of windows, icons, menus, and pointers (WIMP), a model that allowed users to interact with digital content visually rather than through complex commands. It introduced a structured, spatial approach to computing. At the same time, the introduction of the mouse made it possible to directly manipulate elements on the screen, reducing cognitive load compared to text-based input.
What has not changed is the user-centered design principle, clarity, usability, and accessibility are still at the core of good interface design. In addition, there is hierarchical navigation, file systems, menus, and structured navigation are basic ways to organize digital content.
But there is still a lot to improve
Now many interfaces are overloaded, and many application designs are too confusing, resulting in inconvenient navigation. UI designers need to prioritize simplicity and hierarchy. And the emergence of AI may have more personalized and adaptive user interfaces.