bbrother Posted December 17, 2024 Posted December 17, 2024 Description: I would like to address a significant UX issue in Affinity Designer's alignment tool. Currently, users are unable to set the "Align to:" parameter before selecting an alignment type (e.g., left, center, right). This design flaw leads to unnecessary visual disruptions and a counterintuitive workflow. Issue: Non-Intuitive Workflow: Users are forced to select an alignment type before adjusting the "Align to:" parameter. This disrupts the natural order of setting parameters first and then executing the action. Visual Disruptions: When you load the app with factory defaults, the default for "Align to:" is "Selection Bounds". However, after changing it, the app remembers the last setting used. The disruption occurs when your current needs differ from the last used setting or factory default. In such cases, you can't change the "Align to:" setting before clicking an alignment type, which unlocks the dropdown. This leads to elements jumping to unintended positions initially, causing visual disruption and inefficiency. Regression in UX: Previously, it was possible to set the "Align to:" parameter before choosing an alignment type. This more logical and user-friendly implementation was deliberately changed during V1 development, although the reasons for this change are unknown. As we are now in V2 development, it's critical to reassess this decision for better user experience. Consideration for All Users: It’s acknowledged that some users may find the current workflow logical. However, UX design should cater to diverse user preferences and efficiency. Allowing users to set the "Align to:" parameter first would: Provide flexibility without disrupting the current workflow for those who prefer it. Enhance the overall user control and adaptability. Suggestion: To enhance user experience, I propose allowing users to set the "Align to:" parameter before selecting an alignment type. This change would: Create a more intuitive and logical workflow. Reduce unnecessary visual disruptions. Restore the previous, more user-friendly behavior. Enhance overall user control and flexibility. Implementing this change would significantly improve the efficiency and satisfaction of using the alignment tool in Affinity Designer. MKJJ, wokeface, lepr and 2 others 5 Quote
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.