[thelist] how to disable the return key in web forms?

[Tom Dell'Aringa]

> john said
> ><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><
> > Following some usability testing of our web based
> > request form we noticed that some users try to use the
> > return/enter key to move on to the next field.
> > Unfortunately this action causes the first page of the
> > form to be submitted with the resulting error message
> > saying that certain required fields are not filled in.
> ><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><


.jeff said (snipped a bit)
> did you also assess the number of people that used the enter key
> for the intended behavior on purpose?  no?  then maye more studying

> is in order.

> ><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><
> > Does anyone know how to change the behaviour of the
> > return/enter key depending on where abouts in the form
> > the focus is?
> ><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><><
> 
> can't be done for 100% of your users.
> i'd suggest leaving it alone.

I agree with jeff that you are probably only introducing more
problems by attempting that. I disagree though, about leaving it
alone.

If you usability testing has uncovered a problem you need to address
it. It sounds to me like you need to rework your form(s) to work
better is all. If you could post a link, (or screen shots) I'm sure
you could get some useful help from thelist on doing just that.

Tom

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