This content originally appeared on DEV Community and was authored by Kiandra Plummer
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https://codepen.io/kspmultimedia/live/MYaGPmP
Hi! I don't usually post much here but here's something I've been thinking about lately:
I recently rebuilt this set of progress buttons as a practice project exploring how motion can communicate state change. Each button uses the same dark green fill but expresses progression differently: one flows horizontally, another condenses as it fills, and the third uses 3D perspective for a more dimensional feel.
The 3D version feels right for longer processes — think document submissions or multi-step forms. The flatter styles suit quick, single-click actions. I originally found the concept on Codrops and rebuilt it using GSAP for smoother, more controlled motion.
But this project reminded me of something bigger:
Motion Isn't Decoration — It's a Design Decision
The more I work with tools like Webflow and study the effect of motion across digital experiences, the clearer it becomes: animation is a design decision, not decoration.
When it's intentional, it can:
*Guide attention
*Reduce cognitive load
*Support accessibility
*Reinforce emotion
*Make content easier to understand
*Help users feel grounded instead of overwhelmed
Meaningful Motion Helps People — Not Distracts Them
From Flux Academy to UX motion articles to accessibility guidelines, the theme is consistent:
Good animation isn't about doing more. It's about doing what matters.
Here are some principles I use:
- Story first, motion second Instead of adding animation to fill space, I ask: "What is the emotional or informational moment here?" Motion should amplify intent, not distract from it.
- Micro-interactions > big animations Subtle hover states, soft easing, scroll cues, gentle reveals — tiny moments make interfaces feel alive without overwhelming users or slowing sites down.
- Purpose before aesthetics Motion can highlight hierarchy, signal change, or guide direction. If it doesn't support the user journey, it's just noise.
- Accessibility is part of animation Reduced motion settings, predictable timing, readable transitions — this is how animation becomes inclusive instead of exclusive.
Where I'm Growing Next
I'm continuing to deepen my Webflow and motion work through real projects — including GSAP, purposeful scroll triggers, and system-based animations.
But beyond the technical side, I'm interested in something else: using animation as a way to create connection, emotion, and clarity.
Especially in a time when digital spaces feel noisy, rushed, and overwhelming, intentional motion can make experiences more human.
That's the direction I'm moving in — and I'm excited to connect with others building with the same care.
If you're:
*Exploring motion in Webflow or GSAP, I'd love to trade notes.
*If you have examples of meaningful motion, share them — I'm always learning.
*Just want to connecting, please do :)
This content originally appeared on DEV Community and was authored by Kiandra Plummer
Kiandra Plummer | Sciencx (2025-12-01T00:11:21+00:00) Animation as Strategy — Not Decoration. Retrieved from https://www.scien.cx/2025/12/01/animation-as-strategy-not-decoration/
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