In response:

1. The default focus should go on the first element the user will want -
or need - to access logically. In your case it seems to be the first
drop down. I'd put focus on the first drop down to allow them to easily
navigate and select from the search elements.

2. I can't see a reason to not allow the Enter key to submit the form
but perhaps I am missing something. Enter is, at least in my software
world, the key that activates the main screen function (usually a
Save/Commit/Search/Etc function).

There's my thoughts.

Thanks,

Ron Polka

User Interface Designer, EnterpriseRx Mail

 

412-472-8902 Tel

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-----Original Message-----
From: Cathy de Heer [mailto:[log in to unmask]] 
Sent: Thursday, September 18, 2008 2:11 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Default focus and Enter key functionality in form without text
box

I have a search form that starts with a dropdown menu and includes a few
other dropdowns and checkboxes, but no text box. I know the rule about
putting default focus in a text box, but what about a form with other
functionality? Should there be focus on the first dropdown of my form by
default?

Also, is there a reason the Enter/Return key should *not* submit a form
that contains dropdowns etc. but not a text box?

Thank you,

Cathy


:: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: ::
Flying Dutchgirl Communications
Writing that works

http://www.dutchgirl.com

Cathy de Heer
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