Suggestion: Inline labels & help for label-less form elements

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Michael Heilemann

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Jan 7, 2008, 5:04:45 AM1/7/08
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There are rightly some concerns about label-less form elements on the
create page. Obviously, this was done to create as lean and focussed a
create page as possible, which works very well. But the concern that
this might in some instances cause confusion--say if the page is
loaded as an edit page, or even if a similar label-less technique is
used elsewhere in the admin, is worth taking care of.

I therefore suggest using something like this, http://flickr.com/photos/heilemann/2174223423/,
to provide both short-form inline help throughout the admin, as well
as labels for label-less elements.

They appear on hover and on focussing a form element, and disappear
again when either of those two are no longer met.

PS: This does not mean label-less elements should be used
thoughtlessly throughout the admin. They're only helpful in few select
and tightly controlled places.

Robin Adrianse

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Jan 7, 2008, 5:53:29 AM1/7/08
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I like it. It doesn't clutter the interface, and only shows up when the user actually shows interest in that field. The subtle coloring (the light gray background) is also nice. I like this idea -- while the whole "labeless" style is very clean and neat, it doesn't do wonders for accessibility and people unfamiliar with the interface.

Ali B.

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Jan 7, 2008, 7:03:14 AM1/7/08
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Getting the labels to display when the element is "focused" is indead a good idea. And although a lot may think that it is too early to pay attention to the bits of details in the UI. I think the design, clarity and the usablity of the UI is what mostly attracts the regular users.
After all, having no experience (and most of the time no interrest) in how the core is actually implemented, they make the very most of the user base for any given software.

 
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Ali B.
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