It´s great to finally have folding in a native osx application. Although the current implementation has a few usability issues:
First, the folding column needs to be rightmost in the gutter, next to the text. Currently, when line numbering is active, matching folding widget with line is harder than it could be.
Second, the present top and bottom widget icons are too similar, making it hard to read a structure overview off the document. It´s primary function is to show start or end of the block, thus arrow direction must be the most visible feature.
In addition i suggest a highlighting feature, allowing us to close a fold(?) by clicking anywhere on a line between between folding icons. A mouse over effect shows what parts will be affected.
This will allow easier matching of open and closing arrows, as well as reducing mouse travel.
View the attached mock-up for a clearer, visual description. (note in the image I am experimenting with a x-code style top-bar as well ;)
hp.
On 10/9/04 5:09 AM, "Hans Petter Eikemo" hpeikemo@gmail.com wrote:
Second, the present top and bottom widget icons are too similar, making it hard to read a structure overview off the document. It´s primary function is to show start or end of the block, thus arrow direction must be the most visible feature.
I had a similar thought and sent my modified arrow icons before. I thought adding color to the arrows would make it clearer. I'll attach them to this email. Also attached is a screen shot of them vs the old icons. Feedback anyone?
To install: 1. control-click on TextMate in the Finder and select "Show Package Contents" 2. double-click on "Contents" in the window that opens 3. double-click on "Resources" 4. copy my replacement pngs to this Resources folder. Accept the dialog to replace the existing pngs.
Simon
On 9. Oct 2004, at 12:09, Hans Petter Eikemo wrote:
First, the folding column needs to be rightmost in the gutter, next to the text. Currently, when line numbering is active, matching folding widget with line is harder than it could be.
Okay, I've swapped them. But I think then we need some sort of visual separation between the columns (like you're also showing on your picture).
Second, the present top and bottom widget icons are too similar, making it hard to read a structure overview off the document. It´s primary function is to show start or end of the block, thus arrow direction must be the most visible feature.
I liked Simon's idea about the traffic light coloring. But if anyone has suggestion for different shapes, which still look symmetric, I'm listening!
In addition i suggest a highlighting feature, allowing us to close a fold(?) by clicking anywhere on a line between between folding icons. A mouse over effect shows what parts will be affected.
This sounds like a good idea, it's noted!
(note in the image I am experimenting with a x-code style top-bar as well ;)
It's really cool to see you guys do these mockups!
Kind regards Allan
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Allan Odgaard -
Hans Petter Eikemo -
Simon Dorfman