Panel
A panel (also called a “drawer,” “slide-out panel,” or “flyout”) is a container that slides in from the right edge of the screen to display supplementary information, settings, or actions. This type of panel allows users to access additional content without leaving the current view or interrupting their primary task flow.
Usage
Contextual information: Use this panel to show details related to the main content without forcing a page reload or modal overlay.
Secondary actions: Great for tasks that are optional or supplementary, like editing user preferences or applying filters.
Preserve workflow: Since it slides from the side, it keeps the main content visible, allowing users to reference or compare information easily.
Use cases
Displaying advanced filters or search options
Providing detailed information about a selected item (e.g., user profile, product details)
Offering configuration or settings options in context
Not to be confused with
Modal: A modal (or pop-up) typically appears in the center of the screen, blocking interaction with the background until it’s dismissed. A right-side panel, on the other hand, keeps most of the main interface accessible.
Main nav: A sidebar is often a persistent vertical section of the page (e.g., navigation). A right-side drawer is dynamic and appears or disappears based on user interaction.
Best practices
Provide clear triggers
Use a button or icon (often labeled “Details,” “Settings,” or an icon signifying filters) to open the panel.
The trigger should stand out but not dominate the interface.
Ensure discoverability and context
When the panel slides in, provide a clear title or header explaining its purpose.
Keep the user’s context visible; don’t cover the entire screen unless necessary.
Manage screen space
The panel should be sized to accommodate its content without overwhelming the main view.
For smaller screens, consider how the panel behaves—does it overlay the entire screen or adapt responsively?
Easy closure
Provide a visible close button (e.g., an “X” in the top-right corner).
Consider allowing a click or tap outside the panel to close it, but make sure this action is clearly communicated or consistent with user expectations.
Accessibility
Ensure the focus is moved to the panel when it opens, and returned to the trigger when it closes.
Use ARIA attributes (aria-expanded, aria-label, etc.) to inform screen readers of the panel’s state.
Manage keyboard navigation so that users can tab through controls within the panel and close it using the keyboard.
Animation and performance
Use smooth but quick animations to avoid distracting or delaying users.
Ensure the animation performs well on all devices.
Clearly indicate how to close the panel (e.g., an “X” button, a “Close” link, or by clicking outside the panel if supported).
Summary
A panel (or drawer) is a powerful UI pattern for showing additional content or actions without disrupting the primary screen. By sliding in from the right, it keeps the main context accessible and allows users to reference or interact with both the main view and the panel’s content. Best practices include providing a clear trigger, a concise title or header, a straightforward way to close the panel, and strong accessibility support.
