The Doherty Threshold: The Secret Behind Apps You Can’t Put Down
The Doherty Threshold: The Secret Behind Apps You Can’t Put Down
Hi, I’m Amish Srivastava, a designer passionate about creating seamless user experiences. Today, I want to introduce you to a UX principle that completely changed how I approach design: the Doherty Threshold.
What if I told you that 400 milliseconds could make or break your app’s success? Let’s dive into why this principle is crucial, how industry-leading apps use it, and how you can implement it to build experiences your users will love.
What is the Doherty Threshold?
First proposed by John Doherty in 1982, the Doherty Threshold emphasizes one thing: speed matters. It states that systems must respond to user actions within 400 milliseconds to keep users engaged.
Why 400ms? Because it aligns with how quickly our brains process information. When responses fall within this window, users stay in the zone, fully immersed in the experience. Exceed this threshold, and you risk frustrating your users and losing them entirely.
Why the Doherty Threshold Matters Today
In 2025, user expectations are higher than ever. Thanks to lightning-fast internet and high-performance devices, anything slower than instant feels like an eternity.
When systems respect the Doherty Threshold, they do more than respond quickly—they create trust, loyalty, and delight. Whether it’s sending a message, tapping a button, or loading a video, every interaction should feel effortless.
How the World’s Best Apps Nail the Doherty Threshold
1. Google Keep
What It Does: Adding a note or checking off a task happens instantly.
Why It Works: Immediate responses make task management feel intuitive and rewarding.
2. Slack
What It Does: Real-time messaging and instant updates simulate in-person conversations.
Why It Works: The fluidity keeps teams productive and eliminates communication friction.
3. Instagram
What It Does: Double-tapping a post triggers an instant heart animation.
Why It Works: Quick feedback feels satisfying and keeps users engaged longer.
4. YouTube
What It Does: Videos start almost immediately, with buffering cleverly masked.
Why It Works: Users stay hooked because the experience feels seamless.
How I Apply the Doherty Threshold in My Work
When designing apps, I prioritize speed and responsiveness for critical interactions.
For example:
In a task management app, I ensured every button provided immediate feedback, even if the underlying process took longer.
In an AR prototype, preloading assets reduced delays, ensuring users stayed immersed in the experience.
By focusing on speed, I’ve seen how small changes can dramatically improve user satisfaction and retention.
How to Apply the Doherty Threshold in Your Projects
Here’s how you can start leveraging this principle today:
Optimize Performance: Use techniques like caching, preloading, and lazy loading to reduce response times.
Provide Immediate Feedback: Use animations or progress indicators to reassure users their input is registered.
Prioritize Critical Actions: Ensure buttons, navigation, and other key interactions respond instantly.
Test Continuously: Regularly measure and optimize response times based on user feedback.
A Challenge for Designers and Developers
Think about the apps you use daily. Why do some feel smooth and effortless, while others frustrate you? Now, look at your own projects. Are they fast enough?
If not, start optimizing today—because every millisecond counts.
Final Thoughts
The Doherty Threshold is more than a technical benchmark—it’s a promise to respect your users’ time and attention. By designing systems that respond within 400ms, we create experiences that don’t just function—they delight.
Let’s commit to building apps users don’t just tolerate but love.
I’d love to hear your thoughts! Have you used the Doherty Threshold in your projects? Or do you have a favorite app that nails it? Drop a comment, or connect with me—I’m always excited to discuss great design.
— Amish Srivastava
UX Designer | Builder of Seamless Experiences | Advocate for User-Centric Design
