User flow map: 15 tips for best UX design

Being a diagram made up of sequential steps that a user must go through to perform a target action, a user flow is an extremely useful tool for UX/UI designers

user flow combined with website page covers

Essential Functions of user flow mapping

A correctly composed app or website user flow allows you to:

Create an intuitive design

Analyze and document the design development process

Standardize the design development process to ensure efficiency and quality

Share your vision of the finalized solution with other employees and departments

Identify and eliminate bottlenecks, duplications, and unnecessary steps

Provide users with a concise, user-friendly interface

Make a list of requirements for the content of websites at the initial steps 
of development

Pro tips on user flow creation

Make it accessible

Your app or website flow should be concise and understandable for everyone who reads it. This is why you should make a minimum number of blocks and not clutter them with unnecessary text

Synergizing the FlowMapp user flow tool interface with the engaging visual representation of sitemap page cards

Keep it simple

The more precise your diagram is for others, the better. Create a straightforward entry and exit point 
to make it easier for the user to focus on the flow from start to finish. After you draw the main flow, you can also make branches between the secondary blocks. Moreover, you can use a user flow generator 
to simplify your work.

Instead of building one complex user flow, split it into several smaller ones

Don’t forget to convey flowchart details to users

Use the Swimlane diagram to delineate responsibilities if you involve other departments 
or teams in processes

Use connectors to make your flow logical and, 
if necessary, break it into separate pages without losing fluidity

Integrating the FlowMapp user flow tool's interface with the dynamic presentation of visual sitemap page cards.

Create a legend

Provide readers with a flowchart legend identifying 
the goals of all the shapes you used in it. In the basic scenario, you have two characters - the user and 
the system that responds to their requests. Use 
the following shapes:

Rectangles to indicate a specific action

Diamonds to show decisions

Circles/ovals to indicate entry and exit points

Arrows to mark navigation around the diagram

basic shapes in user flow design

Use only one direction

Adhere to a single direction when you draw a user flow. Using a user flow app, you can choose right to left or top to bottom. Before you start making your diagram, think about how big it will be and, based on this, choose the type of direction (if you draw flows from left 
to right, you can fit more blocks by placing them in the form of stairs going down)

Merging the intuitive FlowMapp user flow tool interface with the organized visual layout of sitemap page cards

Assign a clear purpose to each 
thread

When creating flows, assign them one clear goal/task to avoid the appearance of multiple scenarios 
of actions. This way, you will be able to prevent unnecessary ambiguity and, thus, not confuse users

Creating a harmonious blend between the FlowMapp user flow tool interface and the informative visual elements of sitemap page cards

Use additional visual elements

To make diagram easier to interact with, supplement it with supporting visual elements. Consider attaching pre-made UI screens, as well as other images and icons. Moreover, you can try a user flow maker, which will simplify this process

sign up process user flow

Combine multiple streams with frames

If you have made several interconnected threads, just combine them using frameworks. This way, you can group individual diagrams that show different parts of the user journey, giving them names for easier navigation

Demonstrating a practical instance of user flow through the intuitive FlowMapp user flow tool interface

Test it on real users and make changes based on their behavior

As a user flow creator, you can test your diagram 
on real users, which can be pretty tricky. On the contrary, you will receive a valuable feedback, based on which you will make changes to improve your design. Plus, you can repeat this testing many times 
to achieve better results

Showcasing a real-world application of user flow using the interactive features of the FlowMapp user flow tool interface

Optimize your flows for mobile devices and tablets

Note that some projects don't need a desktop version, and the audience uses them only on smartphones and tablets. Ensure flowchart 
is optimized for mobile gadgets and that the design functions look perfectly on small screens with touch controls

Demonstrating a practical instance of user flow through the intuitive FlowMapp user flow tool interface

Set equal intervals

Making equal intervals between shapes would be best to prevent your diagram from looking sloppy and crooked. This way, it will be visually attractive and more understandable for those who read it. To make it easy and fast, use a user flow website tool for its creation and editing

travel and hotel booking website user flow

Provide clear feedback

Ensure you provide users with feedback throughout the flow. Identify all the points where users need to know what is happening and what to do next. That’s why you should include error and confirmation messages, download indicators, etc.

user flow with text hints

Try not to use diamonds

If you need to make a branch in your flow, it is better not to use diamonds that imply a decision. Instead, use a rectangle with two arrows (Split path) to make 
it easier for users to understand what to do next

instead of using diamond logic shape, we using a rectangle

Involve other experts on your team

The main goal of creating a flowchart is to analyze user behavior within your digital solution and improve business performance. Thus, it would help to involve your colleagues from other departments in project discussions to get a better result

Presenting a hands-on glimpse into user experience navigation via a specific user flow within the FlowMapp user flow tool interface

Remember the need for updates

If you update your flowchart on time, you avoid encountering significant inaccuracies and problems 
for your team. Therefore, you must ensure your diagram is continuously updated with new information or steps

Achieving a seamless connection between the user-friendly FlowMapp interface and the structured visual display of sitemap page cards

Use the right tool

Check the User Flow online free tool. In addition to rich visualization capabilities, it will also provide you with functionality for sharing and commenting and, therefore, simplify the work on the project in a team

Sitemap page card inside a user flow

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