Re: same vertical (blue) line on the left side - same as currently shown when the conversation is expanded
... which would make it really easy to mix up those two very different things (collapsed thread vs. expanded child).
> same vertical (blue) line on the left side - same as currently shown when the conversation is expanded
Not a good option - in my opinion for the same reason explained by Kostya.
I have a better (alternative) suggestion (after the color options are implemented, as I wrote in a previous post): use the icon to indicate that it's a conversation versus a single message:
- a blue line (square/round) around the icon
- a mix of inside messages icons
etc.
@Kostya, @Paris Geek, @StR,
Well, I fully understand your arguments.
However, my (and StR"s) thoughts about the necessity for a better identification of "Parent messages" are slightly different:
1. There is always only
one conversation expanded at the
same time.
2. This one (expanded) conversation thread is clearly demarkated by a bride blue bar on the top of this conversation - including a message counter.
3. Expanding another conversation will automatically collaps the currently expanded conversation: the blue bar on the top and the blue lines on the left edge of each of these conversation messages are disappearing immediately.
4. Now, scrolling further (up or down) through the whole message list - as described by StR -, you will see only lots of (single) messages, no other (expanded) conversations.
5. Some of these messages are "Parent messages" of conversations, but the only (small) visual difference is the "Message counter" on the rught, which could be overlooked by the user:
> e. g. if at least one message is selected the green "Floating Action bar" on the right side will hide the "Message counter" and the user is not able to see these counters... at least on a phone.
I agree with all of you that it is no need for a repositioning of the "number of children" indicator.But, I agree with StR and I also vote for a more visual indicator for "Parent messages" on the
left edge.
However, Paris Geek's suggestion with a colored circle or square around the icons could be a good alternative to blue lines on the left edge.I hope my description will clarify the background for this recommendation a little more.
Thanks in advance.
Mikeone