This document defines the key UI/UX focus areas for all MFC (Microsoft Foundation Class) applications developed by our team.
The goal is to modernize the interface, improve usability, and deliver a consistent, efficient Windows-native experience — without rewriting the system.
MFC applications are typically desktop productivity tools used by engineers and enterprise users.
Our UI/UX approach should emphasize:
- Clarity over decoration
- Efficiency over visual effects
- Consistency with modern Windows design standards
We will follow Windows Fluent Design principles while maintaining native Win32 compatibility.
| Element | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Theme | Light and Neutral (optionally support Dark Mode if required) |
| Typography | Segoe UI, 9–10pt |
| Color Palette | Neutral base colors, with accent colors only for actions or alerts |
| Icons | Fluent-style flat vector icons (SVG/ICO) |
| Spacing | Consistent 8–16 px grid spacing |
| Alignment | Left-align labels and inputs; right-align buttons |
| Button Order | Follow Windows standard: [OK] [Cancel] [Apply] |
- Group related controls logically.
- Avoid excessive toolbars and modal dialogs.
- Keep navigation predictable and consistent across screens.
- Use readable grids and lists with:
- Alternate row colors
- Hover highlights
- Sticky headers
- Built-in search and filter options
- Ensure full keyboard accessibility.
- Support familiar Windows shortcuts.
- Clearly indicate focused and selected states.
- Provide real-time visual feedback for user actions (loading, saving, etc.).
- Use status bars, inline validation, and confirmation messages.
- Avoid blocking modals for minor notifications.
To achieve a modern UI feel within MFC:
- Use
CMFCVisualManagerWindows11orCMFCVisualManagerOffice2007for theme consistency. - Replace old bitmap icons with vector-based Fluent icons.
- For advanced UI (dashboards, settings pages), consider XAML Islands integration.
- Standardize on a reusable set of controls and dialog templates.
- Support persistence for user preferences (window size, last-used settings, etc.).
- Keep UI elements simple and uncluttered.
- Follow consistent color, font, and control spacing standards.
- Prioritize task efficiency and logical user flow.
- Provide clear, immediate feedback for every user action.
- Use system-standard icons and button positions.
- Test with real users for workflow efficiency.
- Don't use outdated 3D, glossy, or gradient-heavy components.
- Don't overload screens with too many controls or nested dialogs.
- Don't use inconsistent fonts or mixed icon styles.
- Don't hide essential information inside deep menu structures.
- Don't use non-standard keyboard shortcuts.
- Don't break the Windows-native feel by mimicking web UI components.
- Audit existing screens to identify inconsistencies and usability issues.
- Define UI templates for dialogs, forms, toolbars, and dashboards.
- Design prototypes in Figma before implementation.
- Review with internal stakeholders and power users for validation.
- Implement with reusable MFC UI components for long-term maintainability.
- Collect post-release feedback and improve iteratively.
By focusing on clarity, usability, and Windows-native design consistency,
we can deliver MFC applications that feel modern, reliable, and easy to use —
while maintaining technical stability and performance.
"Modern UI is not about flashy design — it's about making complex tools feel simple."
Prepared by: UXBD Design Team
Applies to: All MFC desktop software projects
Last Updated: 03 November 2025