Improving a Bad Interface in 3 Steps

July 8, 2025
Posted in UI/UX
July 8, 2025 Damien

Improving a Bad Interface in 3 Steps

UX Redesign Challenge

We’ve all been there: staring at a cluttered, confusing, or outdated interface thinking, “How did this even get built?”

Instead of mocking bad UX, let’s fix it.

Here’s a simple, powerful 3-step process to transform a broken interface into a clean, intuitive experience—without starting from scratch.


Step 1: Diagnose the Problems

Before redesigning anything, you need to understand what’s broken and why.

What to look for:

  • Clutter: Too many elements fighting for attention
  • Confusing flows: Users don’t know what to do next
  • Poor hierarchy: Important actions are hidden or minimized
  • Inconsistent UI: Colors, fonts, buttons behave differently across screens
  • Accessibility issues: Low contrast, tiny text, no keyboard navigation

Tip: Use tools like Hotjar, Google Analytics, or usability tests to watch users struggle in real time. Their pain points are your starting points.


Step 2: Simplify, Prioritize, Clarify

Now that you know what’s not working, it’s time to strip it down and rebuild the experience with intention.

Key actions:

  • Simplify the layout: Use spacing, grouping, and fewer elements per screen.
  • Prioritize tasks: Highlight primary CTAs, reduce options, and lead with what matters most.
  • Clarify copy and actions: Rewrite vague labels like “Submit” or “Info” into precise, user-friendly terms.
  • Establish hierarchy: Use font size, color, and visual weight to guide the eye.

Remember: Every design choice should answer: “Does this help the user succeed faster and with less confusion?”


Step 3: Test and Iterate Quickly

Redesign isn’t a one-shot effort. Even the smartest fixes need validation.

How to iterate efficiently:

  • Build interactive prototypes (e.g., in Figma or Framer)
  • Run quick usability tests—even 3–5 users can reveal 80% of problems
  • Compare before vs. after results: task completion rate, time on task, user satisfaction
  • Adjust based on feedback, not guesswork

Win: A great redesign doesn’t just look better—it performs better. Measure it.


Final Thought

Bad interfaces are everywhere—but with the right approach, any UX can be rescued.

By following these 3 steps:

  1. Diagnose the pain points
  2. Simplify and clarify the experience
  3. Test and improve based on real behavior

You turn frustration into flow—and users into fans.

Damien

Strategic and user-centered design leader with 25+ years of experience designing intuitive, elegant digital products. Proven track record in leading cross-functional teams, improving user satisfaction, and driving measurable business outcomes through design innovation. Expert in design systems, user research, accessibility, and agile collaboration. Passionate about human-centered design and data-informed decision-making.