Chapter 3: Design considerations for tailored data-entry screens

Chapter 3: Design considerations for tailored data-entry screens

1. An online form used to enter data, an view data that the user see and it needs to be presented in a way users will understand

2. User

   • Assume that everyone is a novice user, although alternative pathways made available for more experienced users

3. Consistent layout/house style

   • Conforms to house style
   • Icons should use common symbols that a user is familiar with
   • Consistent layout so user can learn the interface quickly

4. Font size/style

   • Must conform to the house style
   • Chosen appropriate for the user
   • Must be legible

5. Colours

   • Suitable for the user to be able to view data a well as conforming to house style
   • Clashing colours such as red and green should not be used together
   • Soft colours should help users with dyslexia
   • Used to distinguish between labels and inputs

6. Validation

   • Reduce errors made by users
   • Used to check that:
     • Data has been entered e.g- presence check
     • Email address include @ e.g- picture check
     • Date of birth appropriate e.g-range check
     • Numbers have been entered e.g- type check

7. Error messages

   • Invalid data entered, then appropriate error messages appear
   • Include a clear indication of what is wrong, and a positive instruction

8. Flow of information

   • Should be in a logical order
   • 'Tab' order can be set, left to right, top to bottom

9. On screen help

   • Clear instructions
   • Balance between enough information to be entered and info which is already available
   • Pop up help can be used so that instructions only appear when a data item is being entered
   • All buttons clearly labelled and in a prominent position so that the user can find them quickly