Mark the area
NewA person wants to change one part of a picture or page. How do they say which part?
Let them mark the area, say the change, then compare before and after, with Undo close by.
Try it
How to design it
- 1
Let people mark the area
A box around the part keeps the rest safe from changes.
- 2
Offer quick choices and free words
Show a few common changes, plus a place to say it in their own words.
- 3
Show what changed
Say which part changed, and leave the rest alone.
- 4
Let them compare and undo
A Before and After switch, and an Undo button that always works.
Do and avoid
Do
- Show the marked area with a clear outline.
- Change only the marked area.
- Keep Before and After one tap apart.
- Keep the original until the person is happy.
Avoid
- Do not change the whole picture for a small request.
- Do not replace the original with no way back.
- Do not hide which area was changed.
- Do not make people describe the spot in words alone.
Why it works
Pointing is easier than describing. When people can mark a spot, they feel precise, and seeing a before and after lets them judge the change for themselves. An easy undo makes them willing to try more.