Comments on: Calling in the Big Guns http://boxesandarrows.com/calling-in-the-big-guns/ Boxes and Arrows is devoted to the practice, innovation, and discussion of design; including graphic design, interaction design, information architecture and the design of business. Wed, 15 May 2013 11:41:04 +0000 hourly 1 By: praveenkvma http://boxesandarrows.com/calling-in-the-big-guns/#comment-7643 praveenkvma Wed, 30 Nov -0001 00:00:00 +0000 http://boxesandarrows.com/calling-in-the-big-guns/#comment-7643 I am working on a project and web form is one of the screens. I used single column layout for form design as this is what is being followed everywhere. The client however objected on white space in the web form and complained about improper use of screen real estate. The client suggested using two columns of fields to utilize the space. As a good designer I protested but wanted to look for research on two columns approach. Sadly the book does not answer my question. May be, the question is weird but I am in this situation.

Luke, if you are reading this or Will Evans if you got an opportunity to meet him, please ask him to provide some research on two column layout for form design in next edition of the book.

The book is very helpful otherwise and provide good insights.

]]> By: willevans http://boxesandarrows.com/calling-in-the-big-guns/#comment-7644 willevans Wed, 30 Nov -0001 00:00:00 +0000 http://boxesandarrows.com/calling-in-the-big-guns/#comment-7644 Praveen – actually two column is addressed in the book – look at Chapter 3: Paths to Completion – specifically, look at page 53. There are numerous reasons why 2 column layout is not a great idea for form design. The first is scan-lines. A single column means the user can scan right down the form. Two columns adds cognitive load because, depending on layout – they may go down one column, jump up and to the right for the second column – somewhat jarring, or go across left to right, down to the left – over to the right in a zig-zag. Users that tab from field to field will find either experience nasty.
I don’t agree that the right side white space is an issue – and if the want to use it – use it for contextual help – or tips. You can also use it for validation messages…. if you are going to make people fill out a form – tell them why the information is needed, and make it easy to correct problems through the use of that space. With 2 column layouts – you lose that real estate to the form. Thats my 2 cents at least.

]]> By: rakestrawsmith http://boxesandarrows.com/calling-in-the-big-guns/#comment-7645 rakestrawsmith Wed, 30 Nov -0001 00:00:00 +0000 http://boxesandarrows.com/calling-in-the-big-guns/#comment-7645 It is so very useful Review for the Calling .
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