Maxwell’s Demon, System Boundary, and Interface ROI: The Importance of Logical Integrity in UI/UX Design and Evaluation

This paper examines the theoretical foundations of UI/UX design and human–system interaction, with a focus on how logical integrity impacts cognitive processes. Despite advancements in technology and interface design methodologies, many contemporary systems remain unintuitive and frustrating. Scholars have metaphorically linked these persistent usability issues to the second law of thermodynamics, suggesting an inevitable “entropic progression” toward technological complexity. By revisiting classical thought experiments, such as Maxwell’s demon, this study provides novel insights into current interface design challenges. Employing a newly developed information-theoretic framework to model and enhance user interactions, the paper emphasizes the crucial role of human reasoning and cognitive validity in designing coherent, intuitive interfaces. Through this innovative perspective, the research demonstrates that effective user–system interactions fundamentally depend on maintaining logical integrity within both the system and the user, underscoring its significance in contemporary UI/UX design.