The Hacker News post asks for examples of user interfaces (UIs) with high information density – designs that efficiently present a large amount of data without feeling overwhelming. The author is seeking examples of websites, applications, or even screenshots that demonstrate effective information-dense UI design. They're specifically interested in interfaces that manage to balance comprehensiveness with usability, avoiding the pitfalls of clutter and confusion often associated with cramming too much information into a limited space. Essentially, the post is a call for examples of UIs that successfully prioritize both quantity and clarity of information.
The Hacker News post titled "Ask HN: What are good high information density UIs (screenshots, apps, sites)" poses a question to the community seeking examples of user interfaces (UIs) that effectively present a large amount of information within a limited space. The author is interested in seeing practical implementations of information-dense UIs and requests that respondents provide visual examples through screenshots or links to specific applications or websites. The implicit goal of the inquiry is to discover UI designs that maximize informational content without sacrificing usability or clarity. The author seeks inspiration and practical examples of interfaces that efficiently convey complex data or numerous options to the user in a manageable and readily comprehensible manner. They are particularly interested in visually rich examples showcasing this principle in action, hence the request for screenshots along with links to functional apps or websites. This suggests a desire to explore and understand the design choices that make high information density UIs successful, potentially for application in their own projects or simply for general learning and appreciation of effective UI design.
Summary of Comments ( 95 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43925732
The Hacker News comments discuss various examples of information-dense UIs, praising interfaces that balance complexity with usability. Several commenters highlight Bloomberg Terminals, trading platforms, and IDEs like JetBrains products as good examples, noting their effective use of limited screen real estate. Others mention command-line interfaces, specialized tools like CAD software, and older applications like Norton Commander. Some discuss the subjective nature of "good" design and the trade-offs between information density and cognitive load. A few express skepticism that visual examples alone can effectively convey the quality of an information-dense UI, emphasizing the importance of interaction and workflow. Several commenters also call out specific features like keyboard shortcuts, small multiples, and well-designed tables as contributing to effective information density.
The Hacker News post "Ask HN: What are good high information density UIs (screenshots, apps, Bloomberg Terminal, etc.)" generated a variety of comments discussing examples and principles of information-dense user interfaces.
Several users highlighted specific software known for its dense displays. Bloomberg Terminal was mentioned repeatedly, not only by the original poster but also by commenters who acknowledged its industry-standard status for packing vast amounts of financial data onto a single screen. Others pointed to specialized tools like trading platforms, citing their need to present real-time market information efficiently. Integrated development environments (IDEs) were also brought up as examples of information-dense interfaces, given their need to display code, debugging information, and project files simultaneously.
Beyond specific examples, some commenters delved into the qualities that make a UI effectively information-dense. One recurring theme was the importance of customizability. A dense UI isn't inherently good; it needs to allow users to tailor the information displayed to their specific needs and workflows. This could involve features like configurable panels, customizable keyboard shortcuts, and the ability to show or hide specific data points.
Another key aspect discussed was the balance between density and clarity. Simply cramming as much information as possible onto the screen can be counterproductive if it leads to a cluttered and overwhelming experience. Commenters stressed the importance of visual hierarchy, clear labeling, and effective use of typography to ensure that information remains accessible despite the density.
Some users contributed examples that went beyond traditional software. One commenter mentioned control panels in aircraft cockpits as examples of highly information-dense interfaces that are designed for quick and accurate interpretation. This example highlights the importance of context and user expertise in the effectiveness of dense UIs.
A few comments also touched on the potential downsides of information overload. While dense UIs can be powerful tools for expert users, they can also be intimidating and difficult to learn for novices. This raises questions about the trade-offs between efficiency and accessibility in UI design.
Finally, some users offered specific software recommendations. These included older applications known for their information density, as well as more modern tools that attempt to strike a balance between density and usability. These suggestions provided concrete examples for others looking to explore different approaches to information-dense UI design.