Improve 'Send For Review' Button Visibility

by Alex Johnson 44 views

Have you ever submitted a draft, thinking it would automatically be published, only to realize it was still sitting there in draft mode? You're not alone! In many collaborative environments, especially when dealing with datasets, getting content reviewed is a critical step. However, it's easy for users to miss the crucial "Send for Review" button, leading to delays and confusion. Let's dive into why this happens and how we can make that button shine.

The Problem: Drafts Lost in Limbo

The core issue is that users don't always realize that submitting a draft and sending it for review are two distinct actions. They might complete their work, save it as a draft, and assume that's all there is to it. The dataset then languishes in draft state, unseen and unapproved. This problem is particularly relevant in platforms like CeON and fairchive, where structured review processes are essential for maintaining data quality and integrity. It's like carefully crafting an email and saving it as a draft – forgetting to hit that final send button!

Why Users Miss the Button

Several factors can contribute to users overlooking the "Send for Review" button:

  • Design Inconsistency: The button might blend in with the overall interface design, lacking visual prominence.
  • Workflow Misunderstanding: Users might be new to the platform or unfamiliar with the review process.
  • Cognitive Overload: A cluttered interface can overwhelm users, causing them to miss important elements.
  • Lack of Immediate Feedback: Without clear feedback, users may be unsure if sending for review is a necessary step.

Imagine you are using a new software. You fill out all the necessary information, click save, and expect the system to process it automatically. However, there's a tiny, unassuming button labeled "Submit for Approval" tucked away in a corner. If you don't spot it, your work just sits there, gathering digital dust.

The Solution: Make the Button Shine!

To address this issue, we need to make the "Send for Review" button more noticeable and intuitive. Here's a breakdown of strategies to achieve this:

Visual Emphasis

  • Color Contrast: Use a color that stands out from the background and surrounding elements. Think about using a bright, attention-grabbing color, but ensure it aligns with the overall design aesthetic. For example, a vibrant green or a contrasting shade of blue could work well.
  • Size and Shape: Increase the size of the button to make it more prominent. Experiment with different shapes to see what catches the eye most effectively. A slightly rounded rectangle often feels more inviting than a sharp-edged button.
  • Animation: A subtle animation, such as a gentle pulse or a slight movement, can draw attention to the button without being distracting. Avoid anything too flashy or overwhelming.
  • Iconography: Incorporate a clear and recognizable icon, such as an arrow pointing right or a document with a checkmark, to visually represent the action of sending for review. Icons can provide immediate recognition, especially for users who are scanning the interface quickly.

Strategic Placement

  • Proximity: Place the button in a location that is logically connected to the completion of the dataset creation or editing process. For instance, position it directly after the "Save" button or near the summary of the dataset.
  • Visibility: Ensure the button is always visible, even when scrolling. Consider using a fixed position or a floating action button if appropriate. This way, users won't have to hunt for it.
  • Whitespace: Surround the button with enough whitespace to isolate it from other elements and prevent it from getting lost in the noise. Whitespace is a powerful design tool that can significantly improve clarity.

Clear Communication

  • Descriptive Label: Use a clear and unambiguous label, such as "Send for Review," "Submit for Approval," or "Request Review." Avoid jargon or technical terms that might confuse users. Clarity is key to ensuring users understand the button's purpose.
  • Tooltips: Provide a tooltip that appears when the user hovers over the button, explaining the action it will perform. This can offer additional context and reassurance.
  • Confirmation Message: Display a confirmation message after the user clicks the button, indicating that the dataset has been successfully submitted for review. This provides immediate feedback and reduces uncertainty.
  • Progress Indicator: If the review process involves multiple steps, display a progress indicator to show the user where their dataset is in the workflow. This helps manage expectations and keeps users informed.

User Education

  • Tutorials and Guides: Create tutorials and guides that walk users through the dataset creation and review process. Highlight the importance of the "Send for Review" button and explain the consequences of not using it.
  • In-App Prompts: Use in-app prompts or hints to guide new users or those who haven't submitted a dataset for review before. These prompts can be contextual and appear only when relevant.
  • FAQ Section: Include a frequently asked questions (FAQ) section that addresses common questions about the review process, including how to send a dataset for review and what happens next.

Examples in Action

Let's consider how these strategies could be implemented in practice.

Example 1: Enhanced Visuals

Imagine a dataset creation interface with a standard gray "Save" button. To improve the visibility of the "Send for Review" button, we could:

  • Change the button color to a vibrant blue.
  • Increase the button size by 20%.
  • Add a subtle pulsing animation.
  • Include an icon of a document with a checkmark.

Example 2: Improved Placement

In a long form with multiple sections, the "Send for Review" button could be placed at the bottom of the form, directly after the "Save" button. To further enhance its visibility, we could:

  • Use a fixed position for the button, so it remains visible even when scrolling.
  • Surround the button with ample whitespace.
  • Add a tooltip that explains the review process.

Example 3: Clear Communication

After the user clicks the "Send for Review" button, we could display a confirmation message that says:

"Your dataset has been successfully submitted for review. You will receive an email notification when the review is complete."

This message provides immediate feedback and reassures the user that their action was successful.

Testing and Iteration

It's important to test these changes with real users to see what works best. Conduct user testing sessions, gather feedback, and iterate on the design based on the results. A/B testing can also be used to compare different button designs and placements.

Remember, the goal is to make the "Send for Review" button as clear and intuitive as possible. By focusing on visual emphasis, strategic placement, clear communication, and user education, we can help users seamlessly navigate the review process and ensure that their datasets get the attention they deserve.

By implementing these strategies, platforms like CeON and fairchive can significantly improve the user experience, reduce the number of drafts left in limbo, and streamline the review process. The result is a more efficient and collaborative environment for everyone involved.

In conclusion, making the "Send for Review" button stand out is a simple yet effective way to improve user workflows and ensure that valuable datasets are promptly reviewed and published. By focusing on visual design, strategic placement, clear communication, and user education, we can create a more intuitive and efficient experience for everyone.

For more information on user interface design best practices, check out Usability.gov.