Apple's Accordion Fold Interface

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This Bivouac Interface Hall of Fame entry from Apple is an outstanding example of reducing perceived complexity and helping pull users through otherwise overwhelming transactions.

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By collapsing most of the information entered in one section of the form into a strata, Apple keeps users grounded but reinforces a sense of progress throughout the checkout process. Along the way, a yellow prompting box appears next to the unfilled required fields, indicating what users must enter to continue. Stratification of information in clear zones serves as landscape "mile markers," allowing users to sense how far along they are in completing the tasks.

From Luke Wroblewski on A List Apart. Thanks to Arjun for passing this one along.

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Back to the Future

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It is uncertain what is happening at Cadillac headquarters, but let's hope they keep it up! Ed Welburn and his design team continue to successfully explore the edged aesthetic reminiscent of some of Syd Mead's vehicle designs, which inspired many to think about what the future of vehicle design might hold. The CTS Coupe concept is another successful design exercise in that regard. Thanks to the folks at Cadillac for bringing back that feeling of future thinking once again. Now, if only we could start seeing more vehicles like this on the road, ideally with a hybrid power plant.

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