Thread by @rsms

UI design world: let’s clear this up once and for all:

“Modal” is when user input goes into an alternate mode. It is _not_ an overlay window.

Better language for an overlay window: “Dialog box” or “Pop-up window.”

(Don’t agree? Context menus are modal but not windows :-)

https://twitter.com/rsms/status/1435649001655734279?s=21

Figma is modal in many ways: Subtle: selecting the pen tool or rectangle tool changes what happens when you click.
Obvious: Opening the “share” window changes the mode of keyboard input.
Barely modal: Color panel (only some keyboard input changes)

My point here is that modality; for something to be modal, is a broad concept that is widely used in computer UIs and that language is important when communicating with people. When you’re speaking with someone and are unsure about their interpretation of a word, be specific :•)

https://twitter.com/rsms/status/1435971922383175682

Some people are getting upset as they have been calling overlay windows “modals.” I’m not here to point you out or correct you, I’m just offering help and insight into the complexities of UI design. Understanding the concept of modality in UIs will make you a better designer :-)

Tossing in a Vim joke for good measure

https://twitter.com/nathanborror/status/1435995070210076675

Looking to read more? The Apple HIG, first introduced in 1977 and continuously evolved since then, is a great resource for a systematic model of common computer UI. developer.apple.com/design/human-i…

The most approachable version is IMHO (and surprisingly) the 1987 edition. I picked up my copy for $9 on ebay.

I strongly recommend anyone working with computer UIs to read this, even if you have no interest in Apple or their current OSes. Pretty much all mainstream GUI design of today actually stems from this (Win copied Mac, mainstream Linux copied both, etc.)

https://twitter.com/rsms/status/1436036099462205440

Online version: archive.org/details/appleh… (thanks @andresmoreira!)