User:Andrew/HIG/ViewAndNavigation

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    Revision as of 04:17, 25 September 2014 by Andrew (talk | contribs) (→‎Commands)

    Viewing and Navigation

    Viewing and Navigation encompasses the wide variety of behaviors and operations that allow users to navigate the interface and affect its presentation.

    Commands

    • Push Button - Use a push button to initiate an action when the user clicks it.
    • Toggle button - Use a toggle button to indicate a state, preferably in toolbars only.
    • Toolbar - Provide a toolbar for frequently used functions.
    • Context menu - Provide a context menu for controls with implicit functions.
    • Accelerators and shortcuts - Support keyboard access by accelerators and shortcuts.
    • Dialogs - Use dialogs carefully and sparingly to clearly communicate the actions to be performed and to avoid unnecessary interruption.
    • Message Panel - Use a message panel to informs users of a non-critical problem or special condition.
    • Command Link - Use a command link to navigate between pages.
    • Try to omit the status bar from your application.

    Grouping

    • Arrange associated controls by using a labeled group box or an unlabeled frame.
    • Allow users to resize aligned groups by placing a splitter between the groups.
    • Use tabs to show related information on separate pages.

    Complex views

    • Use a list view to show some items out of one category.
    • Use a tree view to show items with a single, natural, hierarchical categorization.
    • If you really need to create your own widget follow the guidelines for custom controls.
    • Double check the guidelines about plotting diagram/charts.

    Patterns

    • Navigation Patterns - Select patterns appropriate for the application content
    • Content Patterns - A collection of consistent ways to present content
      • Images - Guidelines and patterns for displaying images
      • Icons and text - Patterns for consistently showing icons with text
      • Viewing vs Editing - Patterns and guidelines for laying out content that is primarily viewed.
      • Search and Filter- Patterns for exposing search and filter functions
      • Wizard - Patterns for guiding the user through a series of step to accomplish a task
      • Tooltips - Patterns for consistent presentation of information in tooltips.