Projects/Usability/HIG/Frame

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    Revision as of 08:49, 27 September 2013 by Htietze (talk | contribs) (Created page with "__NOTOC__ == Purpose == A ''frame'' (also known as panel) is an unlabeled rectangular control that surrounds a set of related controls. A frame is a way to show relationshi...")
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    Purpose

    A frame (also known as panel) is an unlabeled rectangular control that surrounds a set of related controls.

    A frame is a way to show relationships visually; it provides no additional functionality.

    Example

    Guidelines

    Is this the right control

    • Use a frame to arrange related controls that cannot be labeled. But always consider to use a labeled group box.
    • Do not group single controls.
    • Consider to communicate relationship by layout only.

    Behavior

    • Do not nest grouping elements; use layout to show relationships within a group.
    • Do not disable groups. To indicate that a group of controls doesn't currently apply, disable all the controls within the group, but not the group itself.
    • Put a splitter between aligned grouping controls.

    Appearance

    • Use a 'raised' shadow if the frame is used to convey relationship.

    Implementation