Hiding vs. Disabling Features in UX - When to Use Each?

The article on Smashing Magazine discusses the important distinction between hidden and disabled elements in UX design. The introduction highlights how crucial it is to understand users' interaction with various interface elements, as this understanding directly impacts user experiences. The author emphasizes that hidden elements are available but not visible, while disabled elements are entirely non-interactive. These differences are significant, as they can alter how users perceive functionality and navigation in apps and websites. The article also includes examples illustrating common pitfalls in design practices and the potential traps associated with using hidden and disabled elements. The concluding thoughts suggest that designers should carefully consider how their decisions affect user interactions and what information is truly communicated through user interfaces.