Compatibility

Cross-platform guidance is provided for those design patterns and UI elements that require special treatment in cross-platform cases. Otherwise, all the design patterns provided in these guidelines can be used in a cross-platform manner.

Since some platforms provide system-level integration for menu bars, this pattern is of special relevance for cross-platform applications.

These Human Interface Guidelines are an evolution of the GNOME 2 HIG. The design patterns provided improve upon the previous version of the HIG, and encourage more modern application design. Applications that follow this version of the HIG will use space more efficiently, provide a more focused user experience, and will use modern interpretations of key functionality, such as search, online integration, or notifications.

Much of the advice contained within this HIG can be incorporated into GNOME 2 style applications with minimal disruption, and will lead to an improved experience for users. This includes:

Incorporating these elements of the guidelines can enhance your application without requiring a major redesign, and all GTK+ and GNOME applications can benefit from them.

At the same time, following some of the design patterns in these guidelines may imply larger-scale design changes for GNOME 2 style applications, particularly if those applications are complex. In particular, replacing window title bars and menu bars with a header bar could be a big change for your application.

These Human Interface Guidelines have been designed to assist you in determining the best design for your application, rather than proposing a single template to be used in all applications. As such, while they recommend header bars over menu bars, they provide guidance on both approaches.