2

So I'm kinda stuck and I hope someone here can help me. I'm building this Control Panel for a data center, and I'm not very good with that. I want to make it as simplistic as possible, but expandable - since at first it will only contain a few functions but it will continue to grow for a long time.

I'm looking for some ideas, examples.

Edit: I ended up buying an administration theme from themeforest. Thanks everybody for your input!

4
  • 2
    There's not enough details for us to provide any real feedback for you. Do you have a sketch we can see?
    – DA01
    Jun 21, 2011 at 14:15
  • 2
    Help us to help you! Give us some context to work in. Jun 21, 2011 at 14:29
  • the context is really loose - I will need some navigation through various categories of controls, a search input... something like this, but a lot simpler: derekallard.com/blog/post/…
    – donk
    Jun 21, 2011 at 16:13
  • Those screen shots contain dozens of UI elements and flows. You say you are 'stuck'. What, exactly, are you stuck on? How far have you gotten?
    – DA01
    Jun 21, 2011 at 17:44

2 Answers 2

2

Your question needs a lot more detail. But I feel I can give you some guidance based on what you did give so far. I will update my answer if you provide more.

When you are building a control panel you are really building a portal. And a portal you need to summarize everything as bes you can into categories. You can do this by card sorting or other methods.

Also, when you know something is going to expand and you want to leave room its best to use a modular approach, meaning each piece is self contained and similar in styles.

Lastly, remember that you don't have to add a lot of style for your control panel to be useful. You can add icons to help people scan but don't be afraid to use text too.

Good luck!

0

Well, the question is not nearly specific enough to provide a concrete answer, but I find that skype-like control panels work well for clients and users. For other good examples try Chrome, Firefox and Windows 7 - depending on the size of your app.

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.