That looks pretty good Rob. Some other minor changes I would suggest would be:
cool if the [Cc] link opened the Copy box and disappeared and the 'Copy' text became the link to close the Cc box. Ditto with the Bcc. Probably more user friendly if the Cc link text stays as Cc so the visual switch for the user (Cc -> Copy) is removed
come up with a nice location for it off the top of my head
Rob Smith wrote:
I have updated my version of mail.css (along with several other
files) to improve the overall look of roundcube. Most of the changes are very minor, with the overall goal of making the interface more consistant and usable. I also created more usable screen space, leading to significantly larger message reading and mailbox listing windows. Attached is a zip with all the files that need to be replaced in their proper folders, from the root of your roundcube server. I have also attached some sample screen shots. This release has been tested with firefox and IE6 and works properly in both. These are all the changes I can recall off the top of my head, there could be more. Overall, I feel this fastly improves the appearance and usefulness of the default roundcube theme. I have not modified the Address Book or Personal Settings screens yet, but I will put out a new version that alters those when I get the chance. For the moment, I have simply focused on the most used parts of the program.
Rob
*Changes: /Main Window:/** *Taskbar menu background image removed, and changed to line up with the other menu icons. RoundCube logo slightly changed, line below it removed. Entire interface moved closer to the top of the page after taskbar location changes. Message count bar moved to bottom of page (its not ideal there, I know, but I can't come up with a better place for it). Bottom of the page set to be closer to the bottom of the browser window, same with right side. */Message Reading Window:/* Message reading pane scrolls within the window, instead of the entire page scrolling. */Composition Screen:/* Border colors changed to match the rest of roundcube (Couldn't get the bottom of the message body border to show in firefox, if anyone knows why, please tell me). Window sizes changed so that even wih CC and Bcc selected, the page will not scroll.
Tried sending this once, let me try sending it again.....
My suggestion is this:
In the Message View, how about removing the < Message # of N > text and links entirely?
Then take the Green Left Arrow button that links to the Inbox and instead set it to go back one message. Then add a Green Right Arrow button that is set to go forward one message.
The Green Left Arrow button as it is now, is sort of confusing. Unless you mouse over it, it does not provide any clarity as to what its purpose is. Also, there is already the "Email" link on the top right for taking you to the Inbox. This seems sort of redundant.
What do you guys think? Does this make any sense?
Looking forward to the feedback, Kevin L.
Jeffrey Bacon wrote:
That looks pretty good Rob. Some other minor changes I would suggest would be:
- move the Cc/Bcc links under the 'Recipient' text. In fact it would be
cool if the [Cc] link opened the Copy box and disappeared and the 'Copy' text became the link to close the Cc box. Ditto with the Bcc. Probably more user friendly if the Cc link text stays as Cc so the visual switch for the user (Cc -> Copy) is removed
- remove the white line separators in the mail headers
- 'move to...' drop down looks out of place along the top but I can't
come up with a nice location for it off the top of my head
Rob Smith wrote:
I have updated my version of mail.css (along with several other
files) to improve the overall look of roundcube. Most of the changes are very minor, with the overall goal of making the interface more consistant and usable. I also created more usable screen space, leading to significantly larger message reading and mailbox listing windows. Attached is a zip with all the files that need to be replaced in their proper folders, from the root of your roundcube server. I have also attached some sample screen shots. This release has been tested with firefox and IE6 and works properly in both. These are all the changes I can recall off the top of my head, there could be more. Overall, I feel this fastly improves the appearance and usefulness of the default roundcube theme. I have not modified the Address Book or Personal Settings screens yet, but I will put out a new version that alters those when I get the chance. For the moment, I have simply focused on the most used parts of the program.
Rob
*Changes: /Main Window:/** *Taskbar menu background image removed, and changed to line up with the other menu icons. RoundCube logo slightly changed, line below it removed. Entire interface moved closer to the top of the page after taskbar location changes. Message count bar moved to bottom of page (its not ideal there, I know, but I can't come up with a better place for it). Bottom of the page set to be closer to the bottom of the browser window, same with right side. */Message Reading Window:/* Message reading pane scrolls within the window, instead of the entire page scrolling. */Composition Screen:/* Border colors changed to match the rest of roundcube (Couldn't get the bottom of the message body border to show in firefox, if anyone knows why, please tell me). Window sizes changed so that even wih CC and Bcc selected, the page will not scroll.
Rather nice clean up job.
On the Message View, what do you think of getting rid of the links on the bottom or top that say < Message # of N >.
Instead of using that, how about using the Green Left Arrow that goes back to the Inbox and using that button to go back one message and then adding a Green Right Arrow pointing right to go forward one message. This Right Arrow could be after "Show Source" button.
In my opinion, the Green Left Arrow is sort of confusing in what it currently does (going back to the Inbox). Also, you have the "Email" button up top now anyways that takes you back to the Inbox.
What do you guys think? Does this make any sense in the way I have explained it?
Thanks, Kevin L.
Rob Smith wrote:
I have updated my version of mail.css (along with several other
files) to improve the overall look of roundcube. Most of the changes are very minor, with the overall goal of making the interface more consistant and usable. I also created more usable screen space, leading to significantly larger message reading and mailbox listing windows. Attached is a zip with all the files that need to be replaced in their proper folders, from the root of your roundcube server. I have also attached some sample screen shots. This release has been tested with firefox and IE6 and works properly in both. These are all the changes I can recall off the top of my head, there could be more. Overall, I feel this fastly improves the appearance and usefulness of the default roundcube theme. I have not modified the Address Book or Personal Settings screens yet, but I will put out a new version that alters those when I get the chance. For the moment, I have simply focused on the most used parts of the program.
Rob
*Changes: /Main Window:/** *Taskbar menu background image removed, and changed to line up with the other menu icons. RoundCube logo slightly changed, line below it removed. Entire interface moved closer to the top of the page after taskbar location changes. Message count bar moved to bottom of page (its not ideal there, I know, but I can't come up with a better place for it). Bottom of the page set to be closer to the bottom of the browser window, same with right side. */Message Reading Window:/* Message reading pane scrolls within the window, instead of the entire page scrolling. */Composition Screen:/* Border colors changed to match the rest of roundcube (Couldn't get the bottom of the message body border to show in firefox, if anyone knows why, please tell me). Window sizes changed so that even wih CC and Bcc selected, the page will not scroll.
I will admit that I have made that mistake with the green button, however I like the grayed out button when there are no more message (i.e. you are on the first message) and I also like knowing which message I am on and how many total messages there are.
what about the green arrows (with a grayed-out state) and the text "x of y" below them (centered underneath them)
my $0.01 on usability.
j.
On Mon, 24 Oct 2005 17:36:46 -0400, Kevin Landers support@bezaleel.net wrote:
Tried sending this once, let me try sending it again.....
My suggestion is this:
In the Message View, how about removing the < Message # of N > text and links entirely?
Then take the Green Left Arrow button that links to the Inbox and instead set it to go back one message. Then add a Green Right Arrow button that is set to go forward one message.
The Green Left Arrow button as it is now, is sort of confusing. Unless you mouse over it, it does not provide any clarity as to what its purpose is. Also, there is already the "Email" link on the top right for taking you to the Inbox. This seems sort of redundant.
What do you guys think? Does this make any sense?
Looking forward to the feedback, Kevin L.
Jeffrey Bacon wrote:
That looks pretty good Rob. Some other minor changes I would suggest would be:
- move the Cc/Bcc links under the 'Recipient' text. In fact it would be
cool if the [Cc] link opened the Copy box and disappeared and the 'Copy' text became the link to close the Cc box. Ditto with the Bcc. Probably more user friendly if the Cc link text stays as Cc so the visual switch for the user (Cc -> Copy) is removed
- remove the white line separators in the mail headers
- 'move to...' drop down looks out of place along the top but I can't
come up with a nice location for it off the top of my head
Rob Smith wrote:
I have updated my version of mail.css (along with several other
files) to improve the overall look of roundcube. Most of the changes are very minor, with the overall goal of making the interface more consistant and usable. I also created more usable screen space, leading to significantly larger message reading and mailbox listing windows. Attached is a zip with all the files that need to be replaced in their proper folders, from the root of your roundcube server. I have also attached some sample screen shots. This release has been tested with firefox and IE6 and works properly in both. These are all the changes I can recall off the top of my head, there could be more. Overall, I feel this fastly improves the appearance and usefulness of the default roundcube theme. I have not modified the Address Book or Personal Settings screens yet, but I will put out a new version that alters those when I get the chance. For the moment, I have simply focused on the most used parts of the
program.
Rob
*Changes: /Main Window:/** *Taskbar menu background image removed, and changed to line up with the other menu icons. RoundCube logo slightly changed, line below it removed. Entire interface moved closer to the top of the page after taskbar location changes. Message count bar moved to bottom of page (its not ideal there, I know, but I can't come up with a better place for it). Bottom of the page set to be closer to the bottom of the browser window, same with right side. */Message Reading Window:/* Message reading pane scrolls within the window, instead of the entire page scrolling. */Composition Screen:/* Border colors changed to match the rest of roundcube (Couldn't get the bottom of the message body border to show in firefox, if anyone knows why, please tell me). Window sizes changed so that even wih CC and Bcc selected, the page will not scroll.
I agree w the seemingly uselessness of the green arrow but i like seeing the folder message totals. Gives you and idea of how many pages you'll have to scroll through to find a message.
Kevin Landers wrote:
Tried sending this once, let me try sending it again.....
My suggestion is this:
In the Message View, how about removing the < Message # of N > text and links entirely?
Then take the Green Left Arrow button that links to the Inbox and instead set it to go back one message. Then add a Green Right Arrow button that is set to go forward one message.
The Green Left Arrow button as it is now, is sort of confusing. Unless you mouse over it, it does not provide any clarity as to what its purpose is. Also, there is already the "Email" link on the top right for taking you to the Inbox. This seems sort of redundant.
What do you guys think? Does this make any sense?
Looking forward to the feedback, Kevin L.
Jeffrey Bacon wrote:
That looks pretty good Rob. Some other minor changes I would suggest would be:
- move the Cc/Bcc links under the 'Recipient' text. In fact it would
be cool if the [Cc] link opened the Copy box and disappeared and the 'Copy' text became the link to close the Cc box. Ditto with the Bcc.
Probably more user friendly if the Cc link text stays as Cc so the visual switch for the user (Cc -> Copy) is removed
- remove the white line separators in the mail headers
- 'move to...' drop down looks out of place along the top but I can't
come up with a nice location for it off the top of my head
Rob Smith wrote:
I have updated my version of mail.css (along with several other
files) to improve the overall look of roundcube. Most of the changes are very minor, with the overall goal of making the interface more consistant and usable. I also created more usable screen space, leading to significantly larger message reading and mailbox listing windows. Attached is a zip with all the files that need to be replaced in their proper folders, from the root of your roundcube server. I have also attached some sample screen shots. This release has been tested with firefox and IE6 and works properly in both. These are all the changes I can recall off the top of my head, there could be more. Overall, I feel this fastly improves the appearance and usefulness of the default roundcube theme. I have not modified the Address Book or Personal Settings screens yet, but I will put out a new version that alters those when I get the chance.
For the moment, I have simply focused on the most used parts of the program.Rob
*Changes: /Main Window:/** *Taskbar menu background image removed, and changed to line up with the other menu icons. RoundCube logo slightly changed, line below it removed. Entire interface moved closer to the top of the page after taskbar location changes. Message count bar moved to bottom of page (its not ideal there, I know, but I can't come up with a better place for it). Bottom of the page set to be closer to the bottom of the browser window, same with right side. */Message Reading Window:/* Message reading pane scrolls within the window, instead of the entire page scrolling. */Composition Screen:/* Border colors changed to match the rest of roundcube (Couldn't get the bottom of the message body border to show in firefox, if anyone knows why, please tell me). Window sizes changed so that even wih CC and Bcc selected, the page will not scroll.
I too agree. I like the message totals displayed in some way as well.
What if in using the green arrows for navigating the messages we were to still list the message totals in some other fashion or place.
First thing off the top of my head is perhaps as a mouse over on the Arrows. But I am not sure I like that idea very much.
Maybe in the "header" area. "Message # of N in $folder."
Dunno, I will think on it a bit more.
Kevin L.
Jeffrey Bacon wrote:
I agree w the seemingly uselessness of the green arrow but i like seeing the folder message totals. Gives you and idea of how many pages you'll have to scroll through to find a message.
Kevin Landers wrote:
Tried sending this once, let me try sending it again.....
My suggestion is this:
In the Message View, how about removing the < Message # of N > text and links entirely?
Then take the Green Left Arrow button that links to the Inbox and instead set it to go back one message. Then add a Green Right Arrow button that is set to go forward one message.
The Green Left Arrow button as it is now, is sort of confusing. Unless you mouse over it, it does not provide any clarity as to what its purpose is. Also, there is already the "Email" link on the top right for taking you to the Inbox. This seems sort of redundant.
What do you guys think? Does this make any sense?
Looking forward to the feedback, Kevin L.
Jeffrey Bacon wrote:
That looks pretty good Rob. Some other minor changes I would suggest would be:
- move the Cc/Bcc links under the 'Recipient' text. In fact it would
be cool if the [Cc] link opened the Copy box and disappeared and the 'Copy' text became the link to close the Cc box. Ditto with the Bcc.
Probably more user friendly if the Cc link text stays as Cc so the visual switch for the user (Cc -> Copy) is removed
- remove the white line separators in the mail headers
- 'move to...' drop down looks out of place along the top but I can't
come up with a nice location for it off the top of my head
Rob Smith wrote:
I have updated my version of mail.css (along with several other
files) to improve the overall look of roundcube. Most of the changes are very minor, with the overall goal of making the interface more consistant and usable. I also created more usable screen space, leading to significantly larger message reading and mailbox listing windows. Attached is a zip with all the files that need to be replaced in their proper folders, from the root of your roundcube server. I have also attached some sample screen shots. This release has been tested with firefox and IE6 and works properly in both. These are all the changes I can recall off the top of my head, there could be more. Overall, I feel this fastly improves the appearance and usefulness of the default roundcube theme. I have not modified the Address Book or Personal Settings screens yet, but I will put out a new version that alters those when I get the chance. For the moment, I have simply focused on the most used parts of the program.
Rob
*Changes: /Main Window:/** *Taskbar menu background image removed, and changed to line up with the other menu icons. RoundCube logo slightly changed, line below it removed. Entire interface moved closer to the top of the page after taskbar location changes. Message count bar moved to bottom of page (its not ideal there, I know, but I can't come up with a better place for it). Bottom of the page set to be closer to the bottom of the browser window, same with right side. */Message Reading Window:/* Message reading pane scrolls within the window, instead of the entire page scrolling. */Composition Screen:/* Border colors changed to match the rest of roundcube (Couldn't get the bottom of the message body border to show in firefox, if anyone knows why, please tell me). Window sizes changed so that even wih CC and Bcc selected, the page will not scroll.
I would agree that if the green buttons were used for navigating through the messages, that there should be a grayed-out state for the first and last messages in the list.
On the "x of y," what if it were centered between the two buttons? Is there any simple and light-weight way of doing maybe green font images such as:
<- 4 of 25 ->
where the "4 of 25" would be in a font and color that reflected on the green arrows color and shape....?
That may be a tad much, tho....
Thoughts?
Kevin L.
Joshua Layne wrote:
I will admit that I have made that mistake with the green button, however I like the grayed out button when there are no more message (i.e. you are on the first message) and I also like knowing which message I am on and how many total messages there are.
what about the green arrows (with a grayed-out state) and the text "x of y" below them (centered underneath them)
my $0.01 on usability.
j.
On Mon, 24 Oct 2005 17:36:46 -0400, Kevin Landers support@bezaleel.net wrote:
Tried sending this once, let me try sending it again.....
My suggestion is this:
In the Message View, how about removing the < Message # of N > text and links entirely?
Then take the Green Left Arrow button that links to the Inbox and instead set it to go back one message. Then add a Green Right Arrow button that is set to go forward one message.
The Green Left Arrow button as it is now, is sort of confusing. Unless you mouse over it, it does not provide any clarity as to what its purpose is. Also, there is already the "Email" link on the top right for taking you to the Inbox. This seems sort of redundant.
What do you guys think? Does this make any sense?
Looking forward to the feedback, Kevin L.
Jeffrey Bacon wrote:
That looks pretty good Rob. Some other minor changes I would suggest would be:
- move the Cc/Bcc links under the 'Recipient' text. In fact it would be
cool if the [Cc] link opened the Copy box and disappeared and the 'Copy' text became the link to close the Cc box. Ditto with the Bcc. Probably more user friendly if the Cc link text stays as Cc so the visual switch for the user (Cc -> Copy) is removed
- remove the white line separators in the mail headers
- 'move to...' drop down looks out of place along the top but I can't
come up with a nice location for it off the top of my head
Rob Smith wrote:
I have updated my version of mail.css (along with several other
files) to improve the overall look of roundcube. Most of the changes are very minor, with the overall goal of making the interface more consistant and usable. I also created more usable screen space, leading to significantly larger message reading and mailbox listing windows. Attached is a zip with all the files that need to be replaced in their proper folders, from the root of your roundcube server. I have also attached some sample screen shots. This release has been tested with firefox and IE6 and works properly in both. These are all the changes I can recall off the top of my head, there could be more. Overall, I feel this fastly improves the appearance and usefulness of the default roundcube theme. I have not modified the Address Book or Personal Settings screens yet, but I will put out a new version that alters those when I get the chance. For the moment, I have simply focused on the most used parts of the
program.
Rob
*Changes: /Main Window:/** *Taskbar menu background image removed, and changed to line up with the other menu icons. RoundCube logo slightly changed, line below it removed. Entire interface moved closer to the top of the page after taskbar location changes. Message count bar moved to bottom of page (its not ideal there, I know, but I can't come up with a better place for it). Bottom of the page set to be closer to the bottom of the browser window, same with right side. */Message Reading Window:/* Message reading pane scrolls within the window, instead of the entire page scrolling. */Composition Screen:/* Border colors changed to match the rest of roundcube (Couldn't get the bottom of the message body border to show in firefox, if anyone knows why, please tell me). Window sizes changed so that even wih CC and Bcc selected, the page will not scroll.
First off, nice clean-up... it's definitely a step in the right direction!
Just my $0.01 (no, we won't get into exchange rates again), but I do like the total on the bottom like that and think it would be a bad idea to eliminate it. I like seeing how many messages I have left to scroll through.
What about eliminating the green arrow alltogether, and just using the RoundCube logo or the E-Mail button to kick back to the Inbox? I never use it, anyway.
Also, while it is nice having everything on one line (looked beautiful on my system running 1600x1200) when I logged into another PC (this one at 1024x768) it stinks. The drop-down for moving to a folder is hosed and has the E-Mail button sitting on top of it. I see the logic in splitting them...
Another thing - when in the mailbox view, it would be much more aesthetically pleasing if the top of the message list lined up with the top of the folder list...
Dave
On Mon, 24 Oct 2005 16:03:49 -0400, Kevin Landers support@bezaleel.net wrote:
Rather nice clean up job.
On the Message View, what do you think of getting rid of the links on the bottom or top that say < Message # of N >.
Instead of using that, how about using the Green Left Arrow that goes back to the Inbox and using that button to go back one message and then adding a Green Right Arrow pointing right to go forward one message. This Right Arrow could be after "Show Source" button.
In my opinion, the Green Left Arrow is sort of confusing in what it currently does (going back to the Inbox). Also, you have the "Email" button up top now anyways that takes you back to the Inbox.
What do you guys think? Does this make any sense in the way I have explained it?
Thanks, Kevin L.
Rob Smith wrote:
I have updated my version of mail.css (along with several other
files) to improve the overall look of roundcube. Most of the changes are very minor, with the overall goal of making the interface more consistant and usable. I also created more usable screen space, leading to significantly larger message reading and mailbox listing windows. Attached is a zip with all the files that need to be replaced in their proper folders, from the root of your roundcube server. I have also attached some sample screen shots. This release has been tested with firefox and IE6 and works properly in both. These are all the changes I can recall off the top of my head, there could be more. Overall, I feel this fastly improves the appearance and usefulness of the default roundcube theme. I have not modified the Address Book or Personal Settings screens yet, but I will put out a new version that alters those when I get the chance. For the moment, I have simply focused on the most used parts of the program.
Rob
*Changes: /Main Window:/** *Taskbar menu background image removed, and changed to line up with the other menu icons. RoundCube logo slightly changed, line below it removed. Entire interface moved closer to the top of the page after taskbar location changes. Message count bar moved to bottom of page (its not ideal there, I know, but I can't come up with a better place for it). Bottom of the page set to be closer to the bottom of the browser window, same with right side. */Message Reading Window:/* Message reading pane scrolls within the window, instead of the entire page scrolling. */Composition Screen:/* Border colors changed to match the rest of roundcube (Couldn't get the bottom of the message body border to show in firefox, if anyone knows why, please tell me). Window sizes changed so that even wih CC and Bcc selected, the page will not scroll.
Bob had some interesting feedback that made sense. I figured I would reply to it here.....
I agree with you in trying to keeps things simplistic and clutter-free.
I had not considered that the email button would take you back to the inbox, even if you had just come from the trash folder. Something to ponder. Perhaps the "Email" button could be configured to do exactly what the green arrow is currently doing, take you back to the last folder list you visited.
I sort of wonder even how much the text beside the right taskbar icons is needed. If there is to be text, why not put it under the buttons and provide ourselves with a little more horizontal working room that way. It would certainly help to clarify across the board what each icon is for (in addition to the ALT/TITLE tags).
Thanks, Kevin L.
Rob Smith wrote:
Here you go. For your suggestion, I'm not entirely sure I agree.
The >back arrow has always made sense to me, although it isn't an entirely >necessary function (you can always use your browsers back button). I >guess my main concern is with putting more buttons up there, and that >clicking the mail box button to go back is A) more confusing than a >green arrow and B) probably wouldn't take you to the correct page if >you had been browsing a page other than the first page. As is, on >lower resolution screens (800x600) you get some overlap in buttons on >the top bar. If we keep adding more, it will just get worse.
Rob
Kevin Landers wrote:
I would agree that if the green buttons were used for navigating through the messages, that there should be a grayed-out state for the first and last messages in the list.
On the "x of y," what if it were centered between the two buttons? Is there any simple and light-weight way of doing maybe green font images such as:
<- 4 of 25 ->
where the "4 of 25" would be in a font and color that reflected on the green arrows color and shape....?
That may be a tad much, tho....
Thoughts?
Kevin L.
Joshua Layne wrote:
I will admit that I have made that mistake with the green button, however I like the grayed out button when there are no more message (i.e. you are on the first message) and I also like knowing which message I am on and how many total messages there are.
what about the green arrows (with a grayed-out state) and the text "x of y" below them (centered underneath them)
my $0.01 on usability.
j.
On Mon, 24 Oct 2005 17:36:46 -0400, Kevin Landers support@bezaleel.net wrote:
Tried sending this once, let me try sending it again.....
My suggestion is this:
In the Message View, how about removing the < Message # of N > text and links entirely?
Then take the Green Left Arrow button that links to the Inbox and instead set it to go back one message. Then add a Green Right Arrow button that is set to go forward one message.
The Green Left Arrow button as it is now, is sort of confusing. Unless you mouse over it, it does not provide any clarity as to what its purpose is. Also, there is already the "Email" link on the top right for taking you to the Inbox. This seems sort of redundant.
What do you guys think? Does this make any sense?
Looking forward to the feedback, Kevin L.
Jeffrey Bacon wrote:
That looks pretty good Rob. Some other minor changes I would suggest would be:
- move the Cc/Bcc links under the 'Recipient' text. In fact it
would be cool if the [Cc] link opened the Copy box and disappeared and the 'Copy' text became the link to close the Cc box. Ditto with the Bcc. Probably more user friendly if the Cc link text stays as Cc so the visual switch for the user (Cc -> Copy) is removed
- remove the white line separators in the mail headers
- 'move to...' drop down looks out of place along the top but I can't
come up with a nice location for it off the top of my head
Rob Smith wrote:
I have updated my version of mail.css (along with several other
files) to improve the overall look of roundcube. Most of the changes are very minor, with the overall goal of making the interface more consistant and usable. I also created more usable screen space, leading to significantly larger message reading and mailbox listing windows. Attached is a zip with all the files that need to be replaced in their proper folders, from the root of your roundcube server. I have also attached some sample screen shots. This release has been tested with firefox and IE6 and works properly in both. These are all the changes I can recall off the top of my head, there could be more. Overall, I feel this fastly improves the appearance and usefulness of the default roundcube theme. I have not modified the Address Book or Personal Settings screens yet, but I will put out a new version that alters those when I get the chance. For the moment, I have simply focused on the most used parts of the
program.
Rob
*Changes: /Main Window:/** *Taskbar menu background image removed, and changed to line up with the other menu icons. RoundCube logo slightly changed, line below it removed. Entire interface moved closer to the top of the page after taskbar location changes. Message count bar moved to bottom of page (its not ideal there, I know, but I can't come up with a better place for it). Bottom of the page set to be closer to the bottom of the browser window, same with right side. */Message Reading Window:/* Message reading pane scrolls within the window, instead of the entire page scrolling. */Composition Screen:/* Border colors changed to match the rest of roundcube (Couldn't get the bottom of the message body border to show in firefox, if anyone knows why, please tell me). Window sizes changed so that even wih CC and Bcc selected, the page will not scroll.
The text 'E-Mail' might be better changed to 'Inbox" or 'Last Folder' or even '{last folder}' to tell you what folder it's returning you too.
To keep with the drag-n-drop theme, the 'move to...' dropdown might be eliminated in favour of dragging your message to the folder you want. The question is what user interface key to use to indicate 'drag this to a folder to move the message there'. Not that it's a perfect example, however, Thunderbird doesn't even have a 'move to' command outside the menus (you have to drag-n-drop or go 'Message > Move..' or right-click > Move..).
I think that we can probably, at minimum, have the labels on the upper-right buttons moved below to buttons (eventually a preference for Show Labels on the buttons would be good). However, from a usability standpoint, we have to make sure the delete and logout buttons are distinct in their visual appearance as to not confuse users. (The current delete button confuses me a bit as that symbol in Thunderbird means mark as junk)
We also have to leave room in the design for expansion (eg. Search, Filters, Spam stuff, etc.).
So, basically, after further review, I think the 2 button bars makes more sense for future and for lower resolutions and to get the message list to line up with the top of the folders.
Kevin Landers wrote:
Bob had some interesting feedback that made sense. I figured I would reply to it here.....
I agree with you in trying to keeps things simplistic and clutter-free.
I had not considered that the email button would take you back to the inbox, even if you had just come from the trash folder. Something to ponder. Perhaps the "Email" button could be configured to do exactly what the green arrow is currently doing, take you back to the last folder list you visited.
I sort of wonder even how much the text beside the right taskbar icons is needed. If there is to be text, why not put it under the buttons and provide ourselves with a little more horizontal working room that way. It would certainly help to clarify across the board what each icon is for (in addition to the ALT/TITLE tags).
Thanks, Kevin L.
Rob Smith wrote:
Here you go. For your suggestion, I'm not entirely sure I agree. The back arrow has always made sense to me, although it isn't an entirely necessary function (you can always use your browsers back button). I guess my main concern is with putting more buttons up there, and that clicking the mail box button to go back is A) more confusing than a green arrow and B) probably wouldn't take you to the correct page if you had been browsing a page other than the first page. As is, on lower resolution screens (800x600) you get some overlap in buttons on the top bar. If we keep adding more, it will just get worse.
Rob
Kevin Landers wrote:
I would agree that if the green buttons were used for navigating through the messages, that there should be a grayed-out state for the first and last messages in the list.
On the "x of y," what if it were centered between the two buttons? Is there any simple and light-weight way of doing maybe green font images such as:
<- 4 of 25 ->
where the "4 of 25" would be in a font and color that reflected on the green arrows color and shape....?
That may be a tad much, tho....
Thoughts?
Kevin L.
Joshua Layne wrote:
I will admit that I have made that mistake with the green button, however I like the grayed out button when there are no more message (i.e. you are on the first message) and I also like knowing which message I am on and how many total messages there are.
what about the green arrows (with a grayed-out state) and the text "x of y" below them (centered underneath them)
my $0.01 on usability.
j.
On Mon, 24 Oct 2005 17:36:46 -0400, Kevin Landers support@bezaleel.net wrote:
Tried sending this once, let me try sending it again.....
My suggestion is this:
In the Message View, how about removing the < Message # of N > text and links entirely?
Then take the Green Left Arrow button that links to the Inbox and instead set it to go back one message. Then add a Green Right Arrow button that is set to go forward one message.
The Green Left Arrow button as it is now, is sort of confusing. Unless you mouse over it, it does not provide any clarity as to what its purpose is. Also, there is already the "Email" link on the top right for taking you to the Inbox. This seems sort of redundant.
What do you guys think? Does this make any sense?
Looking forward to the feedback, Kevin L.
Jeffrey Bacon wrote:
That looks pretty good Rob. Some other minor changes I would suggest would be:
- move the Cc/Bcc links under the 'Recipient' text. In fact it
would be cool if the [Cc] link opened the Copy box and disappeared and the 'Copy' text became the link to close the Cc box. Ditto with the Bcc.
Probably more user friendly if the Cc link text stays as Cc so the visual switch for the user (Cc -> Copy) is removed
- remove the white line separators in the mail headers
- 'move to...' drop down looks out of place along the top but I can't
come up with a nice location for it off the top of my head
Rob Smith wrote:
I have updated my version of mail.css (along with several other
files) to improve the overall look of roundcube. Most of the changes are very minor, with the overall goal of making the interface more consistant and usable. I also created more usable screen space, leading to significantly larger message reading and mailbox listing windows. Attached is a zip with all the files that need to be replaced in their proper folders, from the root of your roundcube server. I have also attached some sample screen shots. This release has been tested with firefox and IE6 and works properly in both. These are all the changes I can recall off the top of my head, there could be more. Overall, I feel this fastly improves the appearance and usefulness of the default roundcube theme. I have not modified the Address Book or Personal Settings screens yet, but I will put out a new version that alters those when I get the chance. For the moment, I have simply focused on the most used parts of the
program.
Rob
*Changes: /Main Window:/** *Taskbar menu background image removed, and changed to line up with the other menu icons. RoundCube logo slightly changed, line below it removed. Entire interface moved closer to the top of the page after taskbar location changes. Message count bar moved to bottom of page (its not ideal there, I know, but I can't come up with a better place for it). Bottom of the page set to be closer to the bottom of the browser window, same with right side. */Message Reading Window:/* Message reading pane scrolls within the window, instead of the entire page scrolling. */Composition Screen:/* Border colors changed to match the rest of roundcube (Couldn't get the bottom of the message body border to show in firefox, if anyone knows why, please tell me). Window sizes changed so that even wih CC and Bcc selected, the page will not scroll.
I agree with changing the "E-Mail" text to "Inbox," but there is
also a behavior change that is needed. I didn't realize this until now,
but the E-Mail button doesn't do anything unless you are in either the
address book or the personal settings. (Ex: you are reading a message,
you can't click E-Mail to go back to your inbox, it doesn't change
anythign when you click on it). I believe the E-Mail button should
become an Inbox button, always bringing you to the 1st page of your inbox.
I also agree the "move to" box looks very out of place, and
replacing it with a drag-and-drop system would be ideal, but what do
they drag? Thats the part I am stuck on, and more important than what
do they drag, how is the user supposed to know they can drag that part
of the message to move it?
Making the logout and delete buttons more distinct wouldn't hurt,
but isn't a huge deal. I disagree with the need for two menu bars.
Look at Thunderbird sometime, it has no difficulty fitting all its icons
onto one line. Once the icons are modified to have the text under them,
this will clear up a LOT of space on the top bar. Additionally, doing
something about the "Move to" drop-down box will clear up even more space.
Rob
Jeffrey Bacon wrote:
The text 'E-Mail' might be better changed to 'Inbox" or 'Last Folder' or even '{last folder}' to tell you what folder it's returning you too.
To keep with the drag-n-drop theme, the 'move to...' dropdown might be eliminated in favour of dragging your message to the folder you want. The question is what user interface key to use to indicate 'drag this to a folder to move the message there'. Not that it's a perfect example, however, Thunderbird doesn't even have a 'move to' command outside the menus (you have to drag-n-drop or go 'Message > Move..' or right-click > Move..).
I think that we can probably, at minimum, have the labels on the upper-right buttons moved below to buttons (eventually a preference for Show Labels on the buttons would be good). However, from a usability standpoint, we have to make sure the delete and logout buttons are distinct in their visual appearance as to not confuse users. (The current delete button confuses me a bit as that symbol in Thunderbird means mark as junk)
We also have to leave room in the design for expansion (eg. Search, Filters, Spam stuff, etc.).
So, basically, after further review, I think the 2 button bars makes more sense for future and for lower resolutions and to get the message list to line up with the top of the folders.
Kevin Landers wrote:
Bob had some interesting feedback that made sense. I figured I would reply to it here.....
I agree with you in trying to keeps things simplistic and clutter-free.
I had not considered that the email button would take you back to the inbox, even if you had just come from the trash folder. Something to ponder. Perhaps the "Email" button could be configured to do exactly what the green arrow is currently doing, take you back to the last folder list you visited.
I sort of wonder even how much the text beside the right taskbar icons is needed. If there is to be text, why not put it under the buttons and provide ourselves with a little more horizontal working room that way. It would certainly help to clarify across the board what each icon is for (in addition to the ALT/TITLE tags).
Thanks, Kevin L.
Rob Smith wrote:
Here you go. For your suggestion, I'm not entirely sure I agree.
The >back arrow has always made sense to me, although it isn't an entirely >necessary function (you can always use your browsers back button). I >guess my main concern is with putting more buttons up there, and that >clicking the mail box button to go back is A) more confusing than a >green arrow and B) probably wouldn't take you to the correct page if >you had been browsing a page other than the first page. As is, on >lower resolution screens (800x600) you get some overlap in buttons on >the top bar. If we keep adding more, it will just get worse.
Rob
Kevin Landers wrote:
I would agree that if the green buttons were used for navigating through the messages, that there should be a grayed-out state for the first and last messages in the list.
On the "x of y," what if it were centered between the two buttons? Is there any simple and light-weight way of doing maybe green font images such as:
<- 4 of 25 ->
where the "4 of 25" would be in a font and color that reflected on the green arrows color and shape....?
That may be a tad much, tho....
Thoughts?
Kevin L.
Joshua Layne wrote:
I will admit that I have made that mistake with the green button, however I like the grayed out button when there are no more message (i.e. you are on the first message) and I also like knowing which message I am on and how many total messages there are.
what about the green arrows (with a grayed-out state) and the text "x of y" below them (centered underneath them)
my $0.01 on usability.
j.
On Mon, 24 Oct 2005 17:36:46 -0400, Kevin Landers support@bezaleel.net wrote:
Tried sending this once, let me try sending it again.....
My suggestion is this:
In the Message View, how about removing the < Message # of N > text and links entirely?
Then take the Green Left Arrow button that links to the Inbox and instead set it to go back one message. Then add a Green Right Arrow button that is set to go forward one message.
The Green Left Arrow button as it is now, is sort of confusing. Unless you mouse over it, it does not provide any clarity as to what its purpose is. Also, there is already the "Email" link on the top right for taking you to the Inbox. This seems sort of redundant.
What do you guys think? Does this make any sense?
Looking forward to the feedback, Kevin L.
Jeffrey Bacon wrote:
That looks pretty good Rob. Some other minor changes I would suggest would be:
- move the Cc/Bcc links under the 'Recipient' text. In fact it
would be cool if the [Cc] link opened the Copy box and disappeared and the 'Copy' text became the link to close the Cc box. Ditto with the Bcc.
Probably more user friendly if the Cc link text stays as Cc so the visual switch for the user (Cc -> Copy) is removed
- remove the white line separators in the mail headers
- 'move to...' drop down looks out of place along the top but I
can't come up with a nice location for it off the top of my head
Rob Smith wrote:
> I have updated my version of mail.css (along with several other > files) to improve the overall look of roundcube. Most of the > changes > are very minor, with the overall goal of making the interface more > consistant and usable. I also created more usable screen space, > leading to significantly larger message reading and mailbox listing > windows. Attached is a zip with all the files that need to be > replaced in their proper folders, from the root of your roundcube > server. I have also attached some sample screen shots. This > release > has been tested with firefox and IE6 and works properly in both. > These are all the changes I can recall off the top of my head, > there could be more. Overall, I feel this fastly improves the > appearance and usefulness of the default roundcube theme. I > have not > modified the Address Book or Personal Settings screens yet, but > I will > put out a new version that alters those when I get the chance. For > the moment, I have simply focused on the most used parts of the
program.
> Rob > > *Changes: > /Main Window:/** > *Taskbar menu background image removed, and changed to line up with > the other menu icons. > RoundCube logo slightly changed, line below it removed. > Entire interface moved closer to the top of the page after taskbar > location changes. > Message count bar moved to bottom of page (its not ideal there, I > know, but I can't come up with a better place for it). > Bottom of the page set to be closer to the bottom of the browser > window, same with right side. > */Message Reading Window:/* > Message reading pane scrolls within the window, instead of the > entire > page scrolling. > */Composition Screen:/* > Border colors changed to match the rest of roundcube (Couldn't > get the > bottom of the message body border to show in firefox, if anyone > knows > why, please tell me). > Window sizes changed so that even wih CC and Bcc selected, the page > will not scroll. > >
> >
> >
> >
!DSPAM:435d90b11322720012211!
I agree with changing the "E-Mail" text to "Inbox," but there is also a behavior change that is needed. I didn't realize this until now, but the E-Mail button doesn't do anything unless you are in either the address book or the personal settings. (Ex: you are reading a message, you can't click E-Mail to go back to your inbox, it doesn't change
hmm, I didn't realize that either.
anythign when you click on it). I believe the E-Mail button should become an Inbox button, always bringing you to the 1st page of your inbox. I also agree the "move to" box looks very out of place, and
I like that behaviour. Basically a 'reset' behaviour for the user so there's always one-click access to back where they started form.
replacing it with a drag-and-drop system would be ideal, but what do they drag? Thats the part I am stuck on, and more important than what do they drag, how is the user supposed to know they can drag that part of the message to move it? Making the logout and delete buttons more
that's exactly the problem I'm having. Coming up with a visual clue as to what to do to drag the message.
distinct wouldn't hurt, but isn't a huge deal. I disagree with the need
totally, just a minor detail.
for two menu bars. Look at Thunderbird sometime, it has no difficulty fitting all its icons onto one line. Once the icons are modified to
I can't test small-screen layouts too well as all my screens are large and very high res and I have small icons selected in my programs =). Anyway, I like the simplicity of the roundcube interface but additional features will require additional visual elements and they have to have space somewhere or we need right-click menus (which, are often more hastle and confusing).
have the text under them, this will clear up a LOT of space on the top bar. Additionally, doing something about the "Move to" drop-down box will clear up even more space.
true, I'll have to see that style layout and get feedback from someone with a lower res display as to how much space is there.
Rob
Jeffrey Bacon wrote:
The text 'E-Mail' might be better changed to 'Inbox" or 'Last Folder' or even '{last folder}' to tell you what folder it's returning you too.
To keep with the drag-n-drop theme, the 'move to...' dropdown might be eliminated in favour of dragging your message to the folder you want. The question is what user interface key to use to indicate 'drag this to a folder to move the message there'. Not that it's a perfect example, however, Thunderbird doesn't even have a 'move to' command outside the menus (you have to drag-n-drop or go 'Message > Move..' or right-click > Move..).
I think that we can probably, at minimum, have the labels on the upper-right buttons moved below to buttons (eventually a preference for Show Labels on the buttons would be good). However, from a usability standpoint, we have to make sure the delete and logout buttons are distinct in their visual appearance as to not confuse users. (The current delete button confuses me a bit as that symbol in Thunderbird means mark as junk)
We also have to leave room in the design for expansion (eg. Search, Filters, Spam stuff, etc.).
So, basically, after further review, I think the 2 button bars makes more sense for future and for lower resolutions and to get the message list to line up with the top of the folders.
Kevin Landers wrote:
Bob had some interesting feedback that made sense. I figured I would reply to it here.....
I agree with you in trying to keeps things simplistic and clutter-free.
I had not considered that the email button would take you back to the inbox, even if you had just come from the trash folder. Something to ponder. Perhaps the "Email" button could be configured to do exactly what the green arrow is currently doing, take you back to the last folder list you visited.
I sort of wonder even how much the text beside the right taskbar icons is needed. If there is to be text, why not put it under the buttons and provide ourselves with a little more horizontal working room that way. It would certainly help to clarify across the board what each icon is for (in addition to the ALT/TITLE tags).
Thanks, Kevin L.
Rob Smith wrote:
Here you go. For your suggestion, I'm not entirely sure I agree.
The >back arrow has always made sense to me, although it isn't an entirely >necessary function (you can always use your browsers back button). I >guess my main concern is with putting more buttons up there, and that >clicking the mail box button to go back is A) more confusing than a >green arrow and B) probably wouldn't take you to the correct page if >you had been browsing a page other than the first page. As is, on >lower resolution screens (800x600) you get some overlap in buttons on >the top bar. If we keep adding more, it will just get worse.
Rob
Kevin Landers wrote:
I would agree that if the green buttons were used for navigating through the messages, that there should be a grayed-out state for the first and last messages in the list.
On the "x of y," what if it were centered between the two buttons? Is there any simple and light-weight way of doing maybe green font images such as:
<- 4 of 25 ->
where the "4 of 25" would be in a font and color that reflected on the green arrows color and shape....?
That may be a tad much, tho....
Thoughts?
Kevin L.
Joshua Layne wrote:
I will admit that I have made that mistake with the green button, however I like the grayed out button when there are no more message (i.e. you are on the first message) and I also like knowing which message I am on and how many total messages there are.
what about the green arrows (with a grayed-out state) and the text "x of y" below them (centered underneath them)
my $0.01 on usability.
j.
On Mon, 24 Oct 2005 17:36:46 -0400, Kevin Landers support@bezaleel.net wrote:
Tried sending this once, let me try sending it again.....
My suggestion is this:
In the Message View, how about removing the < Message # of N > text and links entirely?
Then take the Green Left Arrow button that links to the Inbox and instead set it to go back one message. Then add a Green Right Arrow button that is set to go forward one message.
The Green Left Arrow button as it is now, is sort of confusing. Unless you mouse over it, it does not provide any clarity as to what its purpose is. Also, there is already the "Email" link on the top right for taking you to the Inbox. This seems sort of redundant.
What do you guys think? Does this make any sense?
Looking forward to the feedback, Kevin L.
Jeffrey Bacon wrote:
> That looks pretty good Rob. Some other minor changes I would > suggest > would be: > > - move the Cc/Bcc links under the 'Recipient' text. In fact it > would be > cool if the [Cc] link opened the Copy box and disappeared and the > 'Copy' > text became the link to close the Cc box. Ditto with the Bcc.
> Probably > more user friendly if the Cc link text stays as Cc so the visual > switch > for the user (Cc -> Copy) is removed > - remove the white line separators in the mail headers > - 'move to...' drop down looks out of place along the top but I > can't > come up with a nice location for it off the top of my head > > Rob Smith wrote: > >> I have updated my version of mail.css (along with several other >> files) to improve the overall look of roundcube. Most of the >> changes >> are very minor, with the overall goal of making the interface more >> consistant and usable. I also created more usable screen space, >> leading to significantly larger message reading and mailbox listing >> windows. Attached is a zip with all the files that need to be >> replaced in their proper folders, from the root of your roundcube >> server. I have also attached some sample screen shots. This >> release >> has been tested with firefox and IE6 and works properly in both. >> These are all the changes I can recall off the top of my head, >> there could be more. Overall, I feel this fastly improves the >> appearance and usefulness of the default roundcube theme. I >> have not >> modified the Address Book or Personal Settings screens yet, but >> I will >> put out a new version that alters those when I get the chance. For >> the moment, I have simply focused on the most used parts of the > program.>> Rob >> >> *Changes: >> /Main Window:/** >> *Taskbar menu background image removed, and changed to line up with >> the other menu icons. >> RoundCube logo slightly changed, line below it removed. >> Entire interface moved closer to the top of the page after taskbar >> location changes. >> Message count bar moved to bottom of page (its not ideal there, I >> know, but I can't come up with a better place for it). >> Bottom of the page set to be closer to the bottom of the browser >> window, same with right side. >> */Message Reading Window:/* >> Message reading pane scrolls within the window, instead of the >> entire >> page scrolling. >> */Composition Screen:/* >> Border colors changed to match the rest of roundcube (Couldn't >> get the >> bottom of the message body border to show in firefox, if anyone >> knows >> why, please tell me). >> Window sizes changed so that even wih CC and Bcc selected, the page >> will not scroll. >>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
!DSPAM:435d90b11322720012211!
Hey, I just had an idea for the visual clue about moving a message.
The Folders list has a header bar 'Folders'. What if we added a header bar to the message view that you could drag? The left edge of the message header bar could also have a little document/message icon in it. I don't know if this is enough visual clue to the user that they can/should drag the header bar to move the message.
Any thoughts? I'm just brainstorming here.
Jeff
I like that idea. Kind of like in Moz/FFox/IE where you can drag the favicon to the desktop to create a shortcut. You could have a message icon to drag to the folder to move the message. The only problem would be making the user understand that to move the message you have to drag the icon...
Dave
On Tue, 25 Oct 2005 10:59:53 -0400, Jeffrey Bacon jeffbacon@breakfast.ca wrote:
Hey, I just had an idea for the visual clue about moving a message.
The Folders list has a header bar 'Folders'. What if we added a header bar to the message view that you could drag? The left edge of the message header bar could also have a little document/message icon in it. I don't know if this is enough visual clue to the user that they can/should drag the header bar to move the message.
Any thoughts? I'm just brainstorming here.
Jeff
-- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Anti-Virus. Version: 7.0.300 / Virus Database: 267.12.5 - Release Date: 24/10/2005
hmm... not sure if this is possible or not (been a long time since I did web development so I'm not 'up' on the new technologies), but what about mouse over that icon and is changes to an icon that is a folder and a message picture with an arrow between them (all on one icon). Then, they can either drag that, or click it and have a folder list pop down to select the folder.
Jeff
David A. Davenport wrote:
I like that idea. Kind of like in Moz/FFox/IE where you can drag the favicon to the desktop to create a shortcut. You could have a message icon to drag to the folder to move the message. The only problem would be making the user understand that to move the message you have to drag the icon...
Dave
On Tue, 25 Oct 2005 10:59:53 -0400, Jeffrey Bacon jeffbacon@breakfast.ca wrote:
Hey, I just had an idea for the visual clue about moving a message.
The Folders list has a header bar 'Folders'. What if we added a header bar to the message view that you could drag? The left edge of the message header bar could also have a little document/message icon in it. I don't know if this is enough visual clue to the user that they can/should drag the header bar to move the message.
Any thoughts? I'm just brainstorming here.
Jeff
-- No virus found in this outgoing message. Checked by AVG Anti-Virus. Version: 7.0.300 / Virus Database: 267.12.5 - Release Date: 24/10/2005
On Tue, 25 Oct 2005 10:56:30 -0400, Jeffrey Bacon jeffbacon@breakfast.ca wrote:
I can't test small-screen layouts too well as all my screens are large and very high res and I have small icons selected in my programs =). Anyway, I like the simplicity of the roundcube interface but additional features will require additional visual elements and they have to have space somewhere or we need right-click menus (which, are often more hastle and confusing).
This can be tested fairly easily by just resizing your browser - you don't get exact pixel widths that way, but if you really need that, add in a fixed width div to the top of the page (768px for 800px screen, for example)
I am currently running roundcube in an 800 pixel wide iframe embedded into wordpress - I am not on the most current version yet and have had to make some style tweaks - but it is possible to use it on a small screen.
HTH, j.
On Tue, 25 Oct 2005 10:59:53 -0400, Jeffrey Bacon jeffbacon@breakfast.ca wrote:
Hey, I just had an idea for the visual clue about moving a message.
The Folders list has a header bar 'Folders'. What if we added a header bar to the message view that you could drag? The left edge of the message header bar could also have a little document/message icon in it. I don't know if this is enough visual clue to the user that they can/should drag the header bar to move the message.
I like the folder icon idea or maybe a file cabinet icon? I think any of them would work, although the first time might have a learning curve.