As designers, we’re taught to rely on timeless UX laws — like Fitts’s Law (shorter distances = faster clicks), Hick’s Law (fewer choices = faster decisions), and Jakob’s Law (users prefer familiar patterns).
But here’s a real-world question I keep thinking about:
Can every UX law actually be applied to every product or app we design?
In fast-paced environments, client-driven projects, or MVP builds with tight timelines, we often have to choose between ideal UX and what’s feasible. Sometimes we knowingly break a principle — and surprisingly, the product still works fine.
I’m curious to hear from the community:
-
Which UX laws do you follow religiously, no matter what?
-
Have you ever intentionally broken a UX law for a better business or user outcome?
-
Do you think these laws are always relevant — or are they more of a framework than a rulebook?
Let’s talk about what it really looks like to apply UX laws in 2025.