“Two of the most important characteristics of good design are discoverability and understanding. Discoverability: Is it possible to even figure out what actions are possible and where and how to perform them? Understanding: What does it all mean?” ⏤ The Design of Everyday Things, Don Norman

I thought about the idea of liminal spaces—transitional areas where one is on the edge of two states—amid the quiet hum of my workspace. Suddenly, a light bulb went off in my mind.

I realized that the user interface corresponds to a liminal space. It is the point at which human intentions are converted into digital actions and where users engage with a system's unseen complexities. Users' views and interactions with technology are greatly impacted by this intersection. In his book The Design of Everyday Things, Don Norman highlights the importance it is to create intuitive user interfaces so that people can quickly learn how to use them.

For user interactions, even the humble loading screen is important. It takes up the little time that passes between a user's activity and the software's reaction. During these times, well-thought-out transitions may reduce cognitive load and increase satisfaction for users.

After that, my thoughts wandered to my ongoing interest with local-first software. This method provides its own liminal experience since data and functionality are mostly stored on the user's device rather than on the cloud. It functions at the line between autonomy and belonging, balancing the user's control with the system's requirement to interact with the outside world.

The software is always functional inside its local area but has the ability to extend as needed. It's a place where the system adjusts naturally to keep the user rooted in their experience and where the user's intentions are maintained even in the case of a connection loss. Here, liminality is not just a change; it is a fundamental design principle that represents flexibility and adaptability.

I smiled as I made those connections. Software is full of "in-between" moments that let people go from one state to another, much like liminal spaces in the real world are essential for transformation. Meaningful change occurs in these areas, whether they be in user experience, code, or interfaces.

"Glass affords transparency."

I thought how these thresholds, like glass, drive us toward the future while letting us see the complexity beyond.