Using Spreadsheets: Practical Guidelines for the Design of Menus

An inappropriate menu design can obscure useful functions and prevent the user from accessing the full power of a computer system. Menu designers should consider related aspects of user psychology. For example, some design issues -- such as information overloading, task complexity, system response time, and degree of user control over the system -- are independent of the user's background or experience. Some basic design principles for user interface construction are: 1. Design the interface to suit the needs and abilities of the prospective user. 2. Make the user interface consistent. 3. Provide built-in "help" facilities that offer different levels of assistance and advice. Additional practical guidelines for design include: 1. Use color effectively, in controlled dosages, 2. Use appropriate iconic systems. 3. Avoid continuous blinking. 4. Include a "backout" command at every screen.