Projects/Usability/HIG/Toolbar: Difference between revisions

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    (Created page with "__NOTOC__ == Purpose == A ''tool bar'' is a graphical presentation of commands optimized for fast access. Typically, a toolbar contains buttons that correspond to items in an...")
     
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    __NOTOC__
    {{ Moved To Community | KDE_Visual_Design_Group/HIG/Toolbar }}
     
    == Purpose ==
    A ''tool bar'' is a graphical presentation of commands optimized for fast access. Typically, a toolbar contains buttons that correspond to items in an application's menu, providing direct access to application's most frequently used functions.
     
    A good menu bar is a comprehensive catalog of all the available top-level commands, whereas a good tool bar gives quick, convenient access to frequently used commands.
    == Examples ==
     
    == Guidelines ==
    === Is this the right control ===
    * For standard applications, apply a tool bar by default.
    * Provide a tool bar in addition to the menu bar, but do not replace the menu bar.
    ===  Behavior ===
    * A tool bar should contain only a few, frequently used operations. If the number of operations is above 5 they have to be grouped with separators. Not more than 3 of those sections should be implemented.
    * Do not abuse the tool bar to expose application's features. Only the most frequently functions should be add to the tool bar.
    * Execute operations immediately; do not require additional input from user.
    * Avoid using menu-, split-, and toggle [[Projects/Usability/HIG/Buttons|buttons]] in tool bars. They do not fit well the concept of fast access.
    * Do not hide tool bars by default.  If configurable, users should easily be able to make the tool bar viewable again.
    * Disable buttons that do not apply to the current context.
    * Consider to provide customization for tool bars in respect to position and content.
    ===  Appearance ===
    * By default, represent tool bar buttons with icons only: Visual design should stay for itself. But consider to show captions as well in case of unusual functions or if users configure it.
    * Use and design tool bar icons with special care. Users remember location of an object but rely as well on icon properties.
    * A distinct association between the underlying function and its visual depiction is crucial. Follow the advices for [[Projects/Usability/HIG/IconDesign|icon design]].
    * Use small icons in standard applications and larger icons for tool windows.
    * Do not simulate Microsoft's ribbon controls. KDE stays plain and simple.
    ==  Implementation ==
     
    [[Category:Usability]][[Category:Behavior]][[Category:Viewing_and_Navigation]][[Category:Access_functions]]

    Latest revision as of 12:09, 4 August 2016

    This page is now on the community wiki.