In digital design, making certain parts stand out is essential for helping users move through products and reach their goals easily. However, it's important to use these attention-grabbing elements carefully, so they don't compete with each other or look like ads. This is where the Von Restorff effect, a principle based on making things different to stand out, helps us use contrast smartly and guide users' focus.

The Von Restorff effect is often used in parts of digital products like buttons, links, and notifications.

Buttons and links are often designed to stand out, helping users see where they can take action. This keeps users from clicking on the wrong thing and makes it easier to complete tasks.

In the example provided, the first screen has two buttons with the same color, which can confuse the users and lead to accidental cancellation. Many users tend to scan the screen rather than read each button carefully, so they might mistakenly click the wrong option. To improve clarity, it's essential to differentiate the buttons visually. Using distinct colors to the buttons will help users identify the correct action at a glance, reducing the risk of mistakes and ensuring they can complete the intended task smoothly.

Many services use pricing tables to show subscription plans. Often, they highlight one option to make it stand out, guiding users toward the choice they want to emphasize.

In pricing tables, there are often three options, which can create decision fatigue, making it harder for users to pick a plan. Highlighting one recommended plan can simplify the choice by subtly guiding users toward a preferred option. This helps them quickly identify the best value or most popular choice, making the decision process smoother and increasing the likelihood of a selection.

Notifications, like alerts for updates or actions are designed to get a user's attention. Which are meant to inform users to take actions when required. They are found in almost every app or service, using color or icons to stand out from other parts of the interface.

If too many things stand out, the screen becomes cluttered and it's hard to know where to focus. To avoid this, designers need to apply the Von Restorff effect carefully, highlighting only the most important elements. Too many standout features can distract users and lower the impact of each one.

It's also important to make designs accessible for everyone. This includes people with color vision deficiency, who may struggle to see color-based differences, and people who are sensitive to motion. By considering these needs, designers can make sure contrast is used in a way that everyone can enjoy.

In the first screen, using different colors for buttons helps most users, but it may not work for those with color vision deficiency, as both colors can appear similar to them. To address this, it's important to use additional cues beyond color, such as highlighting one option with a filled background. This approach improves usability for all users creating a more inclusive and effective UI.

To sum up the Von Restorff effect reminds designers to be thoughtful when making things stand out. By highlighting key actions or informations, designers can guide users through digital experiences, making it easy for them to find what they need. When used carefully, contrast not only makes products easier to use but also more memorable, helping them stand out in a crowded online space.