Why Medium Chose FF Tisa Web Pro: Enhancing Readability and Aesthetic Appeal

When it comes to creating a platform that prioritizes both readability and aesthetic appeal, Medium has made strategic choices to enhance the user experience. One such choice is the adoption of FF Tisa Web Pro as the primary font for its posts. This decision was driven by a combination of factors, including the font's readability, warmth and approachability, versatility, aesthetic appeal, and its ability to support Medium's brand identity.

The Importance of Readability

One of the primary reasons Medium chose FF Tisa Web Pro is its excellent readability. Specifically designed for on-screen reading, this font ensures that users can easily consume long-form content without straining their eyes. This is crucial for a platform that focuses on quality writing and extensive reading experiences.

Warmth and Approachability

Another significant factor in the choice of FF Tisa Web Pro is its warm and humanist feel. The font’s overall aesthetic enhances the user experience, creating a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for both writers and readers. This approachability aligns perfectly with Medium’s mission to foster a community of writers and readers.

Flexibility and Versatility

FF Tisa Web Pro’s versatility is another key factor in its selection. The font comes in a range of weights and styles, allowing for flexibility in design. This flexibility helps Medium maintain a consistent look across various types of content, ensuring a cohesive visual identity for the platform.

Aesthetic Appeal and Clean Interface

The modern yet classic design of FF Tisa Web Pro complements the clean and minimalist aesthetic of Medium’s interface. The font is not only functional but also visually pleasing, contributing to an overall aesthetic that enhances the reading experience.

Brand Identity

Choosing a distinctive typeface plays a crucial role in establishing a brand identity. FF Tisa Web Pro helps Medium differentiate itself from other content platforms, reinforcing its unique position in the digital landscape. By aligning the font choice with the platform’s mission of high-quality writing, Medium further enhances its reputation as a platform for thoughtful and engaging content.

Comparison to FF Meta and MetaSerif

Even though I, alongside Christian Schwartz and Kris Sowersby, designed FF Meta, it is often cited as looking more formal than FF Tisa Web Pro. FF MetaSerif, the companion to FF Meta, was designed to be more mainstream. It was influenced by Times New Roman and aimed to be the “Times of the 21st century.” Unlike the quirky and humanistic Meta Sans designed in the late 1980s, we opted for a more balanced look for FF MetaSerif.

In conclusion, Medium’s choice of FF Tisa Web Pro reflects a thoughtful consideration of readability, warmth, versatility, and aesthetic appeal. By choosing this font, Medium has enhanced the reading experience and reinforced its position as a platform dedicated to quality writing and a welcoming community of readers and writers.