Entry Points

Google has an extremely successful and appealing entry point - it makes clear what the highest priority element is (the search box), and through doing that makes it clear to the user why they are there and what they can do there. Other elements are present, but an effective hierarchy ensures that they don't intrude.

The entry point (literally, the place where you start) of a user interface is critically important - if the user is lost as soon as they begin interacting with a system then the experience is automatically negative, and an initial negative experience is difficult to repair. 

"People do judge books by their covers, internet sites by their first pages, and buildings by their lobbies" (Universal Principles of Design, 2010) 

The key elements of a positive Entry Point:

Minimal Barriers
Splash screens, log-in screens and even app drawers can be an intrusive element of user interfaces. Though app drawers are often a necessity, if possible it is always better to display as much of the content in as little steps as possible. In the case of the Hyperloop interface it would be appropriate and applicable to have almost no barriers, as the large screen allows for almost all of the information to be displayed at once, and the top nav bar eliminates the need for separate app drawers. 


Points of Prospect
Points of prospect should allow people to become oriented and clearly survey the steps they can take next. They take shape in the form of effective navigation elements and item hierarchy.  


Progressive Lures
Lures should be used to attract people and pull them through the entry point e.g. an attractive piece of imagery or type, or an engaging navigation element.