User:Andrew/HIG/ViewAndNavigation

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 - Use a context menu to provide a list of functions or options available to users for the selected item.
• 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 inform 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.