Functions - Types
Functions that Relate to an Object on the Current Page | Functions that Open/Fill another Frame on the Current Page | Functions Effecting a Screen Change | Functions that Complete an Action or a Sequence of Actions | Functions Calling a Related Application | Functions within Controls | Jumps from within Texts
Below is a classification of functions that are used in web transactions. Functions are typically presented as pushbuttons, but can also be implemented as hyperlinks. See Pushbuttons - Placement and Look for more information on pushbuttons. See also Hypertext Links vs. Pushbuttons for a discussion when to use buttons and when to use hyperlinks.
Functions that Relate to an Object on the Current Page
These are the most common functions on a screen or page.
Examples
Sort, Total, Delete Line, Expand all, Collapse all
Functions that Open/Fill another Frame on the Current Page
These functions affect other areas on a screen or page.
Examples
Change <Address>, Show <Detail>, Find
Functions Effecting a Screen Change
These functions lead to a screen change. They refer to the contents of a follow-up screen (make a connection to the follow-up title in the function name).
Functions that Complete an Action or a Sequence of Actions
These functions play an important role in the processing of an object (e.g. a requisition or invoice).
Examples
Post, Send order
Functions Calling a Related Application
These functions not only lead to a screen, or page change but temporarily leave the current application and call a related application.
Example
Calling the application "Display Order Status" from within an order
Functions within Controls
These functions can be accessed from within tables, lists, or trees as:
- Hypertext link (use only, if the function provides information about the value [attribute] of a cell)
- Pushbutton with an icon only (generic functions
like "Detail", "Apply", etc.)
Note: Explain icons in a legend.
Examples
Detail, Apply, Sort
Note: See Hypertext Links vs. Pushbuttons for a discussion on when to use buttons and hyperlinks.
Jumps from within Texts
This functionality is provided through hypertext links within a text area. These links change a screen/page area, or lead to a screen change.
Note: See Hypertext Links vs. Pushbuttons for a discussion on when to use buttons and hyperlinks.
Source: SAP Interaction Design Guide for Internet Application Components