Most web developers and programmers couldn't care less about your site visitors. They're largely technical nerds more interested in bits, bytes and "cool" stuff.
So it's up to YOU to make sure what THEY produce is user-friendly.
Example: Phone number entry fields on forms. How often has this happened to you...
Enter Phone No: __________
So you enter the digits and here comes an Alert Box:
"PHONE NUMBER MUST NOT CONTAIN DASHES!"
or
"PHONE NUMBER MUST CONTAIN DASHES!"
or God only knows what else.
Doesn't this drive you crazy? It should.
It's a sure sign that a real moron programmed this application.
Why?
Because it's just as easy for an app to trim the input string into the desired storage format itself, as it is to demand the user do it.
If your site features user interaction, make sure your web developer isn't making your users jump through hoops just to provide basic information.
If your site features user interaction, make sure your web developer isn't making your users jump through hoops just to provide basic information.
If he is, kick his butt or better yet, fire him.
2 comments:
Charlie,
Please explain to me why a phone number is required on a lot of order forms anyway.
Many times have I started to download something and see the phone number required space and decide not to order.
I see no benefit to anyone that requires my number unless personal voice contact is required.
Just my pet peeve I reckon.
Charles
Hi Charles,
I agree with your phone number comment. I usually just put in the generic (xxx) 555-1212 if it's a "required" field.
- Charlie
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