[Sigia-l] Multi column forms in web based applications

[Torrie Hodgson]

Hi,

If the form has 50+ fields, and is one that is used infrequently (instead of 
like a mass data-entry form used many times in an hour), I would probably 
use a single column and multiple pages with separate submit buttons.

My reasoning is that if the user is entering data in 50+ fields, it's 
heartbreaking when something goes awry before it's submitted and all that 
work has to be done over. Breaking it into pieces makes it more likely that 
all the data for the page is entered before timing out, or that a single 
page of 10-15 fields of data is easier to re-enter/recover than 50.

Multiple pages of a single column is better for data integrity too, 
especially if the user is likely to get distracted while using the form, 
like someone who often takes customer calls. It's also helpful if the user 
will need to look up other information to complete the form, like finding a 
phone number, annual income, or whatever he might not already have in the 
forefront of his brain.

A single column also makes it easier for the user to know which direction to 
move (do I go down or right for the next part?), and it is less confusing 
when their browser is configured to either display a small window or really 
big text. Everything that he needs to worry about starts at the left margin 
so there's no way he can miss "hidden" fields on the right.

A single column can also help avoid confusion if you have optional links on 
the right, like search or other tools that can appear to be too similar to 
the other text/drop-down boxes, even if those optional items only appear in 
other parts of the app or site.

These are all lessons I learned while sneakily creating a modular 
dynamically-generated corporate intranet, with a captive IE audience and 
some training prepared for the end users. I hope they might help you in your 
situation.

Torrie Hodgson, MLS
torriehodgson at hotmail.com

>- I am part of a team that is creating a fairly complex form oriented
>web-based application.
>- The end user group is a pretty controlled environment (IE - just
>employees, and only after some training).
>- Many of the forms in question have 50+ fields (each with a field
>descriptor and an entry box/pulldown/radio button etc.
>
>I'll be honest, my stance is to stick with the single column format
>because all the evidence I've seen is that it is easier to work with,
>train, and adapt for future fields and changes.
>
>.christopher daly
>NYC