UI Components

Although I have began to design the overall user interface it was essential to research UI components found on applications. Following a guideline will help me develop and include both essential and effective forms of structure, design and functionality. 

Layout

Linear layout: Align elements either horizontally or vertically within the screen. My project I will be most likely using a vertical layout with some horizontal input on drop down menus.

Controls

Buttons: The application mainly consists of buttons in order for events and functions to be carried out by the user. Areas that I will implement button will be to direct users to various pages within the application, I will also use it for functions such as the camera in order to be able to take a picture. 

Text Input: The user willbe able to insert their own text and notes in sections such as the notepad, where information can be stored. 

Menu

Menus will be used to display various pages within the applications along with functions and tasks. Using sub menus and drop downs will allow further information and functions to be available according to the section that has been selected. 

Settings

Basic settings: These are needed in order for users to edit or remove unwanted information, it is a form of customising the application to their own preferences. Within my prototype it is doubtful that users will have tis option as the project is only a prototype therefore my focus is on the multi-modal sections. 

Notifications

Notifications: These are useful to inform, remind or update the user on an event that has occurred whilst they have not been using the application. It is an effective form of displaying new information without the user having to look manually to see if things have changed. The notifications will not be incorporated within my project as I will be focusing on areas that do no require the need for them. 

Feedback

Feedback is essential when certain tasks have been requested; notifying a user when a shared file has been sent successfully or been declined. Using descriptive labels will inform the user quicker allowing them to continue with another task. These will be incorporated within functions of my project in order to inform the user on what is or has occurred.

The majority of these pointers will be incorporated into my project depending on how far I reached within the development and design stage. It was important to acknowledge and make myself aware of the user interface components that are found on all types of applications in order to follow the same structure.