Caroline,
I read your column, and I agree with your reasoning to a point.
However, you seem to be assuming that the two columns run the length
of the page. I design a lot of forms for applications—not really web
forms, but most of the rules of form design should apply the same. I
use a two column layout to make the most of the screen real estate.
But I don't do it blindly. I logically group the fields and I section
the form. In this way, the two columns don't run the length of the
page, and fields are grouped in a meaningful way. And, as pointed out
earlier, the fields are not filled out sequentially, so having more
fit on the screen at one time makes them easier to find.
So, while your reasoning does apply in many cases (and certainly in
the example given at the beginning of your article), I can't agree
with the statement that "two-column forms are best avoided."
Best,
Jack
On Oct 8, 2008, at 1:38 PM, Caroline Jarrett wrote:
From Hugh Griffith
Does anyone know of any data, or have an opinion, about laying out
forms
in multiple columns?
Meanwhile, I wrote an article called "Two column forms are best
avoided"
http://www.usabilitynews.com/news/article2992.asp
so you can guess from the title that I advise against two-column (or
extra
column) layouts.
Jack L. Moffett
Interaction Designer
inmedius
412.459.0310 x219
http://www.inmedius.com
To design is much more than simply
to assemble, to order, or even to edit;
it is to add value and meaning,
to illuminate, to simplify, to clarify,
to modify, to dignify, to dramatize,
to persuade, and perhaps even to amuse.
- Paul Rand
Jack L. Moffett
Interaction Designer
inmedius
412.459.0310 x219
http://www.inmedius.com
It's not about the world of design;
it's about the design of the world.
- Bruce Mau
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