Use clear hierarchy, useful feedback and one obvious next step to make a complex workflow easier to use.
Calmer interfaces for complicated work
A complex product does not have to present every available choice at the same time. A useful interface gives each decision a clear place in the workflow.
Show the next decision
Keep the current document or task visible. Place the most relevant controls beside the work, and reveal specialist options when they are needed.
Use consistent feedback
The same action should receive the same response across the product. Clear focus, predictable placement and readable status messages reduce the effort of learning an unfamiliar tool.
Keep control with the person
Show what will change before an important action. Preserve the work when a request fails, and make it clear when a change has been saved. Small details like these help complicated workflows feel manageable.