Rethink Terminal User Interface Development

Simon Willison's Weblog· August 21, 2026 View original

Key takeaways

  • The utility and relevance of Terminal User Interfaces are being questioned.
  • Modern applications may benefit more from graphical or web-based interfaces.
  • Developers should critically assess their interface design choices and resource allocation.
  • Focus on user experience and broader accessibility should guide interface development decisions.

Who benefits

Software DevelopmentUX/UI DesignProduct Management

Summary

The post expresses a strong opinion against the continued creation of Terminal User Interfaces (TUIs), suggesting that resources might be better allocated elsewhere.

The author presents a firm stance advocating for a cessation in the development of Terminal User Interfaces (TUIs). This perspective implies that the effort and resources currently directed towards building TUIs could be more effectively utilized in other areas of interface design or application development. The underlying argument likely centers on the perceived limitations or inefficiencies of TUIs in modern computing environments. This viewpoint challenges developers and product managers to critically assess the value proposition of TUIs. It suggests a need to consider whether these interfaces truly serve contemporary user needs and technological capabilities, or if they represent an outdated approach that hinders progress and user experience.

Why it matters

For developers and product teams, this prompts a re-evaluation of interface design choices and resource allocation, questioning the long-term viability and user experience of TUIs in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.

How to implement this in your domain

  1. 1Evaluate current TUI projects for their strategic value and user experience effectiveness.
  2. 2Research alternative interface paradigms, such as graphical or web-based UIs, for potential migration.
  3. 3Prioritize user feedback to understand the actual utility and pain points of existing TUI applications.
  4. 4Allocate development resources to interface solutions that offer broader accessibility and enhanced user engagement.

Original post by Simon Willison's Weblog

"Stop Making TUIs"

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Originally posted by Simon Willison's Weblog on X · view source

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