October 18, 2006
Forms vs. tables for data entry for a large number of fields
Aside from creating logical sets of fields, how else can we improve the usability of forms with a moderate to large number of fields? Is there a threshold between using a form and using a table?
There are many things to consider when designing forms or tables with a large data set. The first is your users and how they will use the form. If the data entry is single-use for consumers or other untrained users, it may be best to use a form instead of a table. On the other hand, if it is for trained users for whom efficiency is critical, or if it is for maintaining a data set over time (especially if users are likely to change only a subset of data at a time), then a table may be better.
Tables also can make sense where the data are not sequential, such as entering player statistics for sports. Tables can be easier to scan, and Help can go on the row/column headings if needed.
If the data entered are unique from field to field, such as tax data, then consider using multiple pages or tabs to break out the data on a form. If the data are sequential, then tabs are a good way to go. If users may go back to the form to change or edit information over time, a read-only view could be shown displaying all information, with different sections editable as needed.
