Help users toAdd multiple things

An interaction that allows a user to add multiple items of the same thing, check and add more if needed.

When to use this pattern

This interaction allows a user to add single or multiple items, check they are correct and provide an option to add more.

This pattern can be used to:

• add people to an application
• add items to a list
• add multiple files

Follow this pattern:

• to help confirm an action
• to allow the user to change their minds
• when the action is not easily reversible
• when the completion immediately starts another process

How it works

Add multiple items

To help users add multiple items of the same thing, the pattern should:

• remember previous choices
• give clear guidance on the flexibility of choices

Add multiple files

Allow users to add files one at a time, check the files on a subsequent screen, and add more if required in an add multiple files loop.

If document categorisation is required, allow the user to select the document type before uploading the file.

Where possible, split tasks up into shorter flows, with 'Check answers' screens at the end of each mini task, rather than after a long task.

Research

In four rounds of research with external users, we found:

• displaying the uploaded documents on a subsequent screen reduces the cognitive load for the user and enabled users to upload multiple documents without encountering issues
• users became familiar with the loop of categorising and adding more documents and were reassured when they could see them being added to the list each time
• asking the user to input additional information relating to the document they are uploading prior to the upload document step worked better
• splitting tasks up avoided issues and confusion because it gave the user more flexibility at each step

More research is needed with users with access needs.

Accessibility

If your service uses this pattern, let us know of any insights you have on accessibility considerations.

Research

This pattern is used by:

• Firearms licensing
• Refugee integration loan
• Manage asylum claim

More research is needed. If your service uses this pattern, get in touch to share your user research findings.

Help us improve this pattern

This pattern needs improving. We need evidence about:

• how to write for this pattern
• alterations for internal caseworking systems
• adding detailed information about multiple things in a long task flow or as part of a longer form
• access to needs testing
• how users with access needs respond

To contribute, add your thoughts and research findings to our GitHub discussion, or follow our contribute guidance.