You know over the years, I’ve installed a lot of software, desktop software, seo software, database software, desktop publishing software, utility software, graphics manipulation software, etc…
Being a software developer I’ve developed many types of software applications for private and public use. Freeware, Adware. I’ve never ventured into creating viruses or trojans or malware.
Which brings me ultimately to the point of this post. The “input focus” In database programs where manual data entry is required, it is often useful to automatically shift the focus from field to field when the desired maximum length is required.
On web forms this technique can be used but is often confusing and a disjointed experience for the end-user.
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Every freakin’ toolbar, web page and whatever extension in my browser wants the input focus. You know the problem, you face it every single day. You’re trying to type in an url directly, and the focus of the input device shift to a search toolbar, or a field on a web page.
Everyone is vying for the focus. It’s valuable. Not to mention companies trying to hijack results pages from website who very well may have custom pages in place to handle errors. These types of practices may seem like good ideas at first. (ah-hmmm AVG) but ultimately you simply start to alienate users who will uninstall your little toolbar, your free anti-virus, your WHATEVER…
So stop stealing MY FOCUS!!!
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