A well-designed sidebar can make or break the user experience. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about functionality. When done right, it guides users effortlessly, saving them time and frustration.

Here are best practices for designing an effective sidebar:

✦ Optimal Sidebar Width. Keep the width functional: 240-300px for expanded mode, 48-64px for collapsed mode. It ensures clarity without taking up too much space.

✦ Switch Navigation Dynamically for Context. Adapt the sidebar to display a focused settings menu when users navigate to specific sections like [Settings]. This keeps the interface streamlined and reduces distractions.

✦ Switch Accounts Easily. Incorporate an account switcher in the sidebar to enable users to toggle seamlessly between multiple company profiles or accounts. It improves efficiency for users managing multiple entities.

✦ Expandable Sub-Items Add Depth. Enable users to expand or collapse sub-menu items for better hierarchy and cleaner navigation. Use icons (like arrows or chevrons) to indicate if sub-menus can be expanded.

✦ Reserve Space for Updates. Use the bottom section of the sidebar for marketing updates or app announcements—visible yet unobtrusive ensuring it doesn't disrupt the primary navigation.

✦ Allow Users to Switch Between Mode. Provide users with the flexibility to toggle between light and dark modes for the sidebar. This feature enhances accessibility, reduces eye strain in low-light environments.

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↳About me

My name is Dmitry, and I am a digital product designer. I specialise in investigating and improving user experiences for SaaS platforms, CRM systems, Back offices, and web applications. I develop innovative solutions by identifying the problem that needs addressing and creating a meaningful experience that meets the needs of end-users, aligning it with the context in which the product will be used.

↳Services I provide

User Experience (UX) Design ✦ User Interface (UI) ✦ DesignWeb & SaaS Application Design ✦ MVP Design & Development ✦ Product Redesign & Optimization an existing product ✦ UX Audit ✦ Wireframing & Prototyping ✦ UX Strategy & Discovery ✦ Design Systems & Documentation ✦ Design support of Launch a new product or feature ✦ Enhance accessibility and inclusivity