Grid Systems
The arrangement and use of space is one of the most important considerations in design. Without proper attention to grid systems and layouts, a design can feel thoughtless and inconsistent. In establishing a consistent rhythm, you provide foundational rules to the structure that informs hierarchy and the way a user will navigate your content.
A grid system provides guidelines for measuring, sizing, and spacing UI elements. By implementing a gridsystem, designers can create a more uniform and predictable product, as the guidelines help to ensure consistency across all UI elements.
The Eight Point Grid
One commonly used system is called "the 8-point grid," which is based on a grid system that uses an 8-point increment for sizing and spacing elements.
The 8-point grid provides flexibility in scaling as it can be subdivided all the way down to a single pixel, and historically most screen sizes have a number of pixels that are divisible by 8. However not all devices and screens use an 8-point grid, making it difficult to implement a grid system universally. Read more: Designing for uncommon screen sizes.
One commonly used system is called "the 8-point grid," which is based on a grid system that uses an 8-point increment for sizing and spacing elements.
The 8-point grid provides flexibility in scaling as it can be subdivided all the way down to a single pixel, and historically most screen sizes have a number of pixels that are divisible by 8. However not all devices and screens use an 8-point grid, making it difficult to implement a grid system universally. Read more: Designing for uncommon screen sizes.
Hard & Soft Grids
Within grid systems there are two common variations that designers use, hard and soft grids.
For example, a soft grid system may be more appropriate for a project that requires a more organic or fluid design, as it allows for greater flexibility in sizing and spacing elements. On the other hand, a hard grid system may be better suited for a project that requires a more rigid or structured design, as it provides more precise guidelines for sizing and spacing elements.
Overall, implementing a spatial system can help designers to streamline their workflow and create more consistent and predictable UI designs. By understanding the different types of grid systems available and their benefits, designers can choose the best spatial system for their project and ensure that their designs are both visually appealing and functional.
For example, a soft grid system may be more appropriate for a project that requires a more organic or fluid design, as it allows for greater flexibility in sizing and spacing elements. On the other hand, a hard grid system may be better suited for a project that requires a more rigid or structured design, as it provides more precise guidelines for sizing and spacing elements.
Overall, implementing a spatial system can help designers to streamline their workflow and create more consistent and predictable UI designs. By understanding the different types of grid systems available and their benefits, designers can choose the best spatial system for their project and ensure that their designs are both visually appealing and functional.