Tool Bar
Action bars provide a set of actionable buttons, typically aligned horizontally or vertically, allowing users to perform tasks quickly and efficiently.
Overview
Tool bars serve as a collection of key actions for users, offering quick access to common tasks or functions within an application, improving efficiency and ease of use. They can be customized based on user needs or context.
When to use
Use tool bars when you need to provide access to several related actions or tools in a condensed space.
Use tool bars in applications with frequent task-based actions, such as text editing, image editing, or file management.
Use them when users need immediate, one-click access to perform tasks such as saving, editing, or navigating.
Use in responsive designs to ensure that key functions remain accessible across different screen sizes, allowing for smooth interaction.
When not to use
Avoid using a tool bar if the actions are rarely needed, as it may overwhelm the interface with unnecessary options.
Avoid adding too many actions that require additional explanation or learning; instead, opt for a more guided interface or contextual menu.
Do not use a tool bar for one-off or infrequent tasks, where simpler navigation would be more appropriate.
Avoid using tool bars in scenarios where each action requires a different flow, as it may confuse users; use popups or dialogs instead.
Types
Accent
Draws attention to essential tools, using a distinct color for clarity.
Primary
The default style, typically aligned with the main theme of the interface.
Secondary
A subtler option for secondary or less emphasized actions.
Anatomy
Active Button: The active button is visually highlighted, indicating the current selection or action in focus.
Inactive Button: This button remains passive until selected, showing it is not the current tool but available for use.
Icon: Icons provide quick recognition of toolbar functions, enhancing usability through visual cues.
Container: The toolbar container holds all toolbar elements, providing structure and organization for buttons and icons.
Styles
Size
Default
16
10
38
Accessibility
Keyboard Accessibility: Ensure that all buttons in the tool bar are fully accessible using the keyboard, allowing users to navigate through and activate controls without needing a mouse.
Screen Reader Support: Provide meaningful labels and descriptions for all tool bar icons and buttons, ensuring that users with visual impairments can understand the available actions.
Focus State: Ensure that every actionable element in the tool bar has a clear and distinguishable focus state for users who rely on keyboard navigation.
High Contrast: Design the tool bar to have sufficient color contrast between the icons, buttons, and background to make the controls easily identifiable for all users.
Consistent Positioning: Position the tool bar in a predictable and consistent location on the interface, so users always know where to access key actions, reducing cognitive load.
Example
Text Editors: Tool bars in word processing applications for tasks such as bold, italicize, or adjusting text alignment.
Photo Editors: Providing quick access to editing tools such as crop, rotate, or adjust brightness.
File Managers: Offering actions like upload, download, or sort for managing files.
Web Browsers: Navigation tools, including back, forward, refresh, and bookmark buttons.
Mobile Apps: Frequently used actions like search, notifications, and user settings, available at the top or bottom of the screen.
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