A concept for performing actions on selected items is needed.

Context

Users need to select screen items before performing actions with them, e.g., users need to select a message to forward.

Forces

The availability of actions after selection may be unclear if not visualised appropriately.

Solution

The solution follows the established metaphor of desktop user interfaces: First, an item must be selected by pressing it once. Then, the possible actions become enabled, which can be issued with another press.

Safety Impact

Instead of performing actions immediately upon selection users are required to select an item before carrying out the associated action. This adds a level of safety because the operator can check if the correct item is selected before performing the action.

Usability Impact

Inadvertent activation of commands by selecting items can be avoided; users have more control of their actions.

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