[IxDA Discuss] Users ability with slider controls

[Jon Baker]

Hi,

I think sliders are good for selecting approximate values, where
there is clear (immediate) feedback as the slider is used. They work
well for volume controls or zoom controls which is where they are
commonly used. From my experience they are not partcularly useful for
precision selecting of a value. With a volume control there is audio
feedback and the user is rarely in the position of thinking I want
exactly 33dB, rather thay want appoximately the correct volume that
is not defening, but can still be heard. With the zoom, the user
generally wants to zoom to the point that what they are zooming is
large enough for their needs. They are rarely thinking I need to zoom
this to 300%.

If precise entry of a number is needed then use something else. For
rating systems I think the selectable stars work well. As to thumb up
thumb down controls.


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Posted from the new ixda.org
http://gamma.ixda.org/discuss?post=22044