They can be arranged like radio buttons (vertically, horizontally or in a grid pattern). Their major advantage is that they allow the user to choose their choice when all others are visible. Many people are also familiar with them and can use them quite fast. They, however, use up a lot of space when there are many options Duckett, 2011()
Data integrity errors that would occur
Without these input controls, data integrity errors would be common. This means that the validity of the data would not be high. Without the text input control, it would not be possible to anticipate all options that users may need to enter. Therefore, it would bring a data integrity error where users attempt to choose options close to what they would have entered or leaving that empty. For example, it is not possible to preempt all names that users may need to choose. Without radio buttons, it would not be possible to limit individuals to specific choices. For example, an individual can only be male or female therefore it is important to limit them to only these two choices. In this case, the data integrity error would involve having invalid options. Without checkboxes, it would not be possible for individuals to be limited to specific choices while at the same time allowing them to pick multiple choices. For example in asking products that individuals have used/owned, it may be important to limit them to PCs, tablets, smartphones and laptops but at the same time allow them to pick multiple choices. Lastly, without select boxes, it may not be possible for users to choose a single option from a list of many options such as country. Select lists allow an individual to choose one country from a list of more than 200 while saving space on the form.
Advantages and disadvantages of restricting user interfaces
One advantage of...
By restricting user interfaces, the organization or company is able to secure its information while allowing their employees access to as much information as they need to perform their assigned tasks and duties. It also helps to ensure the security of sensitive information Spolsky, 2001.
It also has disadvantages one of which is that it limits transparency within an organization. It also creates challenges in dissemination of information Olsen, 1998()
Graphical representation of a Web-based input for making a hotel reservation
References
Duckett, J. (2011). Beginning Web Programming with HTML, XHTML, and CSS. New York: Wiley.
Olsen, D.R. (1998). Developing user interfaces. Philidelphia, PA: Morgan Kaufmann Publishers.
Satzinger, J.W., Jackson, R.B., & Burd, S.D. (2008). Systems analysis and design in a changing world. Mason, OH: Course Technology/Cengage Learning.
Shelly, G.B., & Woods, D.M. (2008). HTML: Complete Concepts and Techniques. Independence, KY: Course Technology Ptr.
Spolsky, J. (2001). User Interface Design for Programmers. New York: Apress.
Make reservation
Validate input
Submit button
Agreement to terms of service
Other services needed e.g. chauffer, room service
Number of children
Number of adults
Depart date
Room type
Room type
Gender
Title (e.g. Mr., Mrs., Ms)
Address
Telephone
Email
Radio buttons
Text inputs
Check boxes
Select lists
