​

≠

Simpson Strong-Tie’s design philosophy is built upon three core principles—Clear, Precise, and Efficient. Together, they shape how we create consistent, scalable solutions that deliver measurable value across product experiences and marketing materials. Clear design ensures content and interactions are immediately understandable, guiding customers toward their goals without clutter or confusion. Precise design underpins our credibility by emphasizing intentional, accurate, and consistent use of details—from terminology and layout to brand expression. Efficient design respects users’ time and mental load, providing frictionless workflows and concise messaging that helps them achieve outcomes quickly. By adhering to these three principles across teams and touchpoints, we reinforce trust, usability, and brand cohesion—making the entire Simpson Strong-Tie ecosystem more intuitive, consistent, and valuable for our customers.

​

Clear

Clarity ensures users immediately understand information, actions, and flows. Prioritize visual hierarchy by using size, color, and placement to make the most important elements stand out. Keep typography and imagery purposeful, avoiding distracting ornamentation so readers can swiftly grasp your message. Align with STUDS, but stay user-focused: if a unique component or layout clarifies a user task or marketing message, justify it through tested user needs, not aesthetic preference alone. In practice, “Clear” means ensuring consistent labeling and messaging across all platforms. Subheadings, short paragraphs, and concise calls to action guide users and potential customers through each step, while cohesive tone and accessible layouts nurture trust. Incorporate Gestalt principles, such as proximity and similarity, so elements that belong together visually communicate their relationship. Ultimately, clarity in both copy and visuals helps users accomplish goals quickly—setting the stage for precise and efficient experiences.

​

Precise

Precision builds user confidence by demonstrating that every design and content decision has been made with purpose. Accuracy and consistency eliminate guesswork, from correctly labeled buttons to carefully verified technical specifications. Alignment, spacing, and consistent use of brand standards reflect attention to detail, maintaining a unified look across marketing, product UIs, and documentation. Consistent styling, shared terminology, and deliberate design choices all contribute to a professional, trustworthy experience. Even minor elements—like icons, fonts, and color usage—should follow established guidelines or be introduced thoughtfully when needed. When conflicts arise, reference Clear and Efficient: precision does not mean rigid adherence if doing so introduces confusion or slows tasks. Instead, use precise standards to communicate design decisions, explaining how each element supports user needs, core workflows, or marketing objectives.

​

Efficient

Efficiency respects the user’s time and mental workload, streamlining tasks and delivering information in the fewest necessary steps. Short, scannable content empowers marketing audiences to grasp your value proposition quickly. In product designs, minimize cognitive load by avoiding unnecessary features, hiding advanced options until needed, and using smooth interaction patterns like immediate feedback and optimistic UI. While efficiency often hinges on clarity and precision, it also encompasses performance and responsiveness—fast-loading pages and snappy interactions reinforce the sense that every detail is well-considered. Give users the most direct route to their goal, whether it’s finding product info on a website or completing a multi-step form in the app. Whenever possible, use established UI components and messaging patterns that meet user expectations without overcomplicating interactions. Efficiency, rooted in clarity and carried out with precision, amplifies user satisfaction, loyalty, and trust.