NNG UX Heuristics — Modern Evaluation Framework

Foundation

Jakob Nielsen's 10 usability heuristics remain the most validated and widely-used framework for evaluating interface quality. Originally published in 1994 and continuously refined by Nielsen Norman Group, these heuristics apply universally across platforms, devices, and interaction paradigms — from traditional GUIs to AI-native and spatial interfaces.

The Core Philosophy (Don Norman + Jakob Nielsen)

Usability is not optional decoration — it is the fundamental determinant of whether a product succeeds. Every interface element must earn its place by serving user goals. The system exists to serve the user, never the reverse.

The 10 Heuristics — Modern Interpretation

H1: Visibility of System Status

The system must always keep users informed about what is going on through appropriate feedback within reasonable time.