Enhance Map Browser User Experience By Saving Filters Between Navigation
Navigating map browsers can sometimes feel like a repetitive task, especially when filters reset with each click or page load. This article delves into a proposed user experience enhancement for map browsers: saving filter settings between navigations. We'll explore the problem, the suggested solution, common use cases, implementation considerations, and the benefits of a session-based approach. This improvement will significantly streamline the map browsing process, making it more efficient and enjoyable for users.
The Problem: Filter Reset Frustration
The current behavior of many map browsers can be frustrating. Each time a user clicks on a map, loads a different page, or navigates back, the applied filters reset to their default state. This filter reset necessitates reselecting the desired criteria repeatedly, which is a time-consuming and cumbersome process. Consider a scenario where a user wants to explore maps sorted by the most favorites. They apply the filter, view a map, and then return to the browser only to find the filter reset. This constant reapplication of filters disrupts the user's flow and hinders efficient browsing.
This resetting of filters becomes particularly problematic when users are systematically exploring a large collection of maps based on specific criteria. Imagine a player searching for uncompleted maps or those with a particular theme or difficulty level. The need to reapply filters after each map view turns what could be a smooth exploration into a tedious chore. The current system forces users to choose between repeatedly setting filters or resorting to workarounds like opening maps in new tabs, which can clutter their browsing experience. Addressing this issue by implementing filter persistence would significantly improve the usability and overall satisfaction of map browsers.
The lack of filter persistence not only affects the immediate browsing experience but also impacts the user's long-term engagement with the platform. Frustration with repetitive tasks can lead to decreased usage and a less positive perception of the map browser. By resolving this issue, developers can create a more welcoming and efficient environment that encourages users to explore and discover new maps. This enhancement would be a valuable step towards creating a more user-friendly and intuitive map browsing experience. The simple act of remembering user preferences can have a significant impact on user satisfaction and platform adoption.
The Proposed Solution: Session-Based Filter Saving
The proposed solution is to implement session-based filter saving. This means that the selected filters in the map browser would be saved and persist throughout the user's current browsing session. The filters would only reset when the user closes their browser or manually refreshes the page (e.g., by pressing F5). This approach strikes a balance between convenience and control, allowing users to maintain their preferred filter settings while also providing a clear way to reset them when needed. The session-based persistence would significantly improve the workflow for users who frequently browse maps using specific criteria.
This solution suggests that each map browser's filters should be saved independently. If a user is browsing maps in multiple categories or using different filter combinations for different purposes, this independent saving would ensure that the filters remain consistent within each specific browsing context. This is crucial for users who may be comparing maps across different categories or who have distinct browsing needs for various game modes or map types. Independent filter saving prevents unintended filter application and enhances the overall organization of the map browsing experience.
The suggestion that all filters reset on F5 provides a clear and intuitive way for users to start with a clean slate. This reset mechanism is familiar to most users and offers a simple way to revert to the default filter settings when desired. The F5 reset functionality acts as a safety net, ensuring that users are not permanently locked into specific filter combinations and can easily adapt their browsing as needed. This approach aligns with user expectations for web application behavior and promotes a sense of control over the browsing experience.
By implementing session-based filter saving with independent browser filters and an F5 reset, the proposed solution addresses the core problem of filter reset frustration while maintaining a user-friendly and intuitive interface. This enhancement would not only improve the efficiency of map browsing but also contribute to a more positive and engaging user experience overall.
Common Use Cases: Enhancing Map Exploration
The benefits of persistent map browser filters become particularly evident when considering common use cases. Imagine a user meticulously sorting maps by the most favorited to discover popular and highly-rated content. With the current system, they must reapply the
