A toggle is a device that is used to switch between two states or options. This is a useful device for both hardware and software solutions. Using a toggle is similar to the action of pressing a button. The toggle is a small piece of wood or plastic that is pushed through a hole to lock in the device’s state.
Toggle is an apt name for a feature that can be found on many of today’s computers and smartphones. Almost every part of a computer has some form of a toggle. In a hardware configuration, the toggle might be a knob that you turn on or off. However, in a software application, a toggle can be a pop-up window that lets you take certain actions. Typically, a toggle will have a number of options, which can be easily distinguished from one another.
Toggling is a simple and straightforward task. In a hardware context, the toggling motion can be achieved with a single click of a button, and in a software one, a few keystrokes are all that’s needed to accomplish the feat. For example, toggling between the on and off states of the Num Lock function on your keyboard is as easy as a press of a key. If you’re on a Mac, you can even use the mouse to accomplish the same task.
As a user, you’ll be able to toggle between various program options using Alt+Tab on Microsoft Windows. When it comes to iOS, you can toggle between the Finder and the Notification Center using the same command. Other platforms support toggle style options as well. Depending on your choice of operating system, you may be surprised to learn that the sexiest toggling isn’t the only way to go.
The best way to achieve this is with a little design thinking. One trick is to make the toggle as visible as possible, particularly when you’re looking at it from a distance. To accomplish this, you may need to implement a visual cue such as a high contrast color scheme. Also, the state you want to toggle on should be well-defined, as this will help you to keep track of your progress.
In the end, a toggle will only serve its purpose if you put it to good use. You don’t want to confuse your users with something they don’t need, or make them waste time with something they don’t have to. So, make your toggles the best they can be and your users will thank you for it. Similarly, don’t forget to give your customers a little something in return. Providing them with the best product possible is the best way to get the business. That’s why it’s important to think through every element of your website and mobile app from a design perspective.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to try out new ideas. It’s always a good idea to test the waters before you release a product that is bound to take off, especially if you’re a startup.
