Universal GUI (was Re: HIG...)

[Monte Goulding]

>
> As more and more development becomes cross- or multi-platform,
> although most
> modern GUIs share a majority of UI elements (common window
> trimmings, menus,
> button types, etc.), each OS has enough distinctions to drive
> everyone crazy
> trying to be "HIG-compliant" across conflicting HIGs.

Hi Richard

I'd be very interested in a document that compared HIGs on various points,
discussed differences and cited research that suggested a superior method.
By choosing the superior method in each instance it would result in a
'highest common denominator HIG'. On the other hand the document might
suggest exactly what the developer needs to do to alter layouts for each HIG
in instances where there is no superior method or moving away from the
platforms HIG would be too confusing for users.

Perhaps there is already a document around like this?
>
> I realize it would be an uphill battle and likely without victory.  Worth
> pursuing, or better off left as a thought experiment? ;)

Considering the major players are providing HIGs and not following them
themselves you could probably go a long way with this. It should be noted
though that even though Java SWING has been around for a while and is
intended to be standard cross-platform it's hardly ever seen. At the end of
the day people want apps to look right for the platforms they are
distributed on. That's why I'm frustrated that after nearly 2 years we still
don't have XP theme support.

Regards

MOnte