Users want and need to be in control of the tools they
use to perform their work. The user can be in control
when an application is flexible and uses
progressive disclosure.
Keep Interfaces Flexible
Providing multiple ways for users to access application functions and accomplish their tasks increases their sense of control. Flexibility enables users to select the best method of accessing a function based on the criteria they choose: experience level, personal preference, unique situation, or simply habit. For example, a user can access a function through a Pulldown Menu, direct manipulation of an object, a mnemonic key press, or a keyboard accelerator.
Your application should also be configurable.
Allowing users to configure settings and select personal preferences
enhances their sense of control and encourages them to take an active role
in understanding your product and how it works. To be effective, the
configurability of your application needs to be easily accessible.
Use Progressive Disclosure
Design your application so that the necessary and common functions are presented first and in a logical order. Make the more sophisticated and less frequently used functions hidden from immediate view, but still available. For example, use a DialogBox to hide settings that are not accessed often.
Decisions about the placement of functions are not easy to make. From the implementation standpoint, all functions are important. Often, however, a relatively small number of functions account for the majority of use. Make sure that these important functions are prominently featured in the presentation of the interface. Also remember that they can be prominent only if other functions are hidden.