CHAPTER 3
Controls
3-20 Sliders
the user may briefly ponder the significance of changing the checkbox’s state.
For example, a checkbox in a fax routing slip lets a user select fine resolution
or not. This option could be implemented with two radio buttons, perhaps
labeled “Fine” and “Standard.” A user is more likely to think about all the
ramifications of the choice with a checkbox than with two radio buttons.
Figure 3-19 illustrates the two approaches.
Figure 3-19 One checkbox vs. two radio buttons
You can use checkboxes to control options and set attributes in your applica-
tion. But use a text button or picture button, not a checkbox, to bring up a
slip; to confirm, authorize, cancel, or stop an action; or to initiate a process.
Sliders 3The Newton interface also includes a slider, with which users can set a
magnitude, position, probability, or other value in a range. Users set a value
by dragging a diamond-shaped knob. The knob indicates the current value
relative to the maximum and minimum values. A slider should have labels
that identify the range and direction of the slider. Figure 3-20 shows an
example of a slider.
Checkbox takes less space and may make a
user think about unstated consequences, but
the unlabeled state may be ambiguous
Radio buttons explicitly label choices, but take
more space and may obscure unstated
consequences