Windows Shell UI Navigation
This document provides detailed information on how to implement and leverage navigation patterns within the Windows Shell user interface. Effective navigation is crucial for providing a seamless and intuitive user experience, allowing users to easily find and access information and functionality.
Core Navigation Elements
The Windows Shell utilizes several key elements to facilitate navigation:
- Command Links: Used to initiate common or recommended actions.
- Breadcrumbs: Visual indicators of the user's current location within a hierarchical structure.
- Tree Views: Hierarchical lists that allow users to expand and collapse nodes to explore content.
- List Views: Display items in a list or grid format, often with sorting and filtering capabilities.
- Navigation Panes: Persistent sidebars that offer quick access to major sections or categories.
Implementing Navigation Patterns
Common Navigation Scenarios
Below are common scenarios and recommended approaches for navigation:
Use a Navigation Pane with clear labels for each section. Ensure consistent placement and behavior across the application.
Scenario: Browsing files and folders.
Leverage the standard File Explorer pattern, which typically includes a tree view on the left for folder structure and a list view on the right for content. Implement familiar keyboard shortcuts for navigation (e.g., arrow keys, Enter, Backspace).
Using the Command Pattern
The Command pattern is fundamental for action-driven navigation. This involves defining actions that can be performed on selected items or within a given context. Consider using:
- Context Menus: For actions related to specific items.
- Toolbars/Ribbons: For frequently used commands.
- Command Links: For guided task completion.
Working with Navigation Controls
Breadcrumb Control
The breadcrumb control provides a visual trail of navigation. Users can click on any part of the trail to quickly jump back to a previous location.
Example structure:
<div class="breadcrumb">
<a href="/">Home</a> >
<a href="/msdn/">MSDN</a> >
<a href="/msdn/documentation/">Documentation</a> >
<span>Windows Shell UI Navigation</span>
</div>
Tree View Control
Tree views are ideal for displaying hierarchical data. Each node can be expanded or collapsed to reveal or hide its children.
Basic structure:
<ul class="treeview">
<li class="expanded">
<span>Parent Node</span>
<ul>
<li><span>Child Node 1</span></li>
<li class="expanded">
<span>Child Node 2</span>
<ul>
<li><span>Grandchild Node 1</span></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
Best Practices for UI Navigation
- Consistency: Maintain consistent navigation patterns throughout the application.
- Discoverability: Make navigation options easily discoverable.
- Feedback: Provide clear visual feedback when a navigation action is performed.
- Efficiency: Allow users to reach their destination with minimal clicks or steps.
- Accessibility: Ensure navigation is accessible to users with disabilities (keyboard navigation, screen reader compatibility).