:: JGOODIES :: Forms

:: Tips & Tricks ::

See also the Quick Start and the JGoodies articles and presentations.

8 Steps to a Better Swing UI

  • Choose a look&feel that uses appropriate fonts and colors.
  • Choose an appropriate icon set.
  • Remove clutter.
  • Align, group, relate and balance.
  • Learn to work with negative space.
  • Take care of aspect ratios.
  • Be consistent.
  • Comply with style guides.

Don'ts

  • Don't change colors.
  • Don't change fonts.
  • Don't break the icon design.

Do's

  • Remove clutter.
  • Use TitledBorders carefully.
  • Add negative space.
  • Align.
  • Be consistent.
  • Balance the design.
  • Use contrast effectively.
  • Use aesthetic aspect ratios.

Tips

  • Benefit from the powerful JFC: Java2D, translucency, etc.
  • Carefully add color, advanced typography, images, animation.
  • Enable problem analysis.
  • Know critical performance issues.
  • Take care of the application startup.
  • Construct lazily ... and prepare eagerly!
  • Check your UI via ClearLook.
(c) 2006 JGoodies