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"Widget" defined: "widget" is a term used to describe interactive page elements such as text-entry boxes, drop-down lists, boxed lists, multiple-select boxes, radio buttons, pop-ups, and check-boxes. Proper use of these elements greatly enhances the usability of a page or form. |
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Which widget? Ask 6 questions: |
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| 1. |
Is it more natural for the user to type the answer rather than select it? |
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If Yes, then use a text box. |
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| 2. |
Are the answers easily mis-typed? |
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If Yes then do NOT use a text box, use another form element like a drop-down or radio buttons. |
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| 3. |
Does the user need to review the options to understand the question? |
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If Yes then use radio buttons or a checklist if possible. If these are not possible use a drop-down or multiple-select box. |
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| 4. |
How many options are there? |
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Very large number = text box
Medium number = drop-down
Small number = radio buttons or checklist |
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| 5. |
Is the user allowed to select more than one option? |
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If Yes then use either checklist, multiple-select form or radio buttons with an “All” or “Any” option. |
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| 6. |
Are the options visually distinctive, that is do they NOT look like each other? An example of items that look like each other would a list that includes numbers 01 and 10. |
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If Yes, consider using a type in box. This is a minor issue and the idea is that users might scan a list of similar items incorrectly. This will probably almost never come up. |
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Roy Zornow
MS Word version 
