'Tree toolbar' insert node icons are missing

[Stan14]

Under Windows 10 'Tree toolbar' shows only 2 icons - unlike previous versions, tree node insert icons are missing:

[dpradov]

Hello @Stan14 This is not a mistake. This was intended in version 1.8.0. To insert nodes in the tree, it is advisable to use keyboard shortcuts, which are very easy to remember (see the help). You also have the main menu entries available:

and from the tree context menu:

Help file:

It is easier to get used to those keys than to distinguish between the icons that were previously offered

Regards Daniel

[Stan14]

"It is easier to get used to those keys than to distinguish between the icons that were previously offered" - who told you that? Totally wrong. I was using Keynote for ~15 years and to me those icons are a must. Oh well, I will stay on 1.7.9.

[mgayamoreno]

I concur with Stan’s point. Although shortcuts are undeniably useful, when you first start using Keynote NF, having buttons to add notes is more convenient. Despite their similarity, these buttons clearly indicated the type of node they were adding.

Regarding moving notes, I’ve been using the Shift + Arrows combination from the outset. However, it would be beneficial for new users to have these functions accessible as buttons. For optimal program usage, consider adding the corresponding shortcut to the label that appears when hovering over the button, in addition to the current description.

Given that adding nodes and moving notes are fundamental functions, I believe it would be very useful to have dedicated buttons for these actions, rather than relying solely on menu options.

In most common software aimed at the general public, shortcuts are something you can learn once you’re familiar with the software. However, typically, you always have the option to perform functions through buttons.

As I mentioned, it’s part of my plans to create a video tutorial for Keynote NF (in collaboration with its current users). Having worked in software training for many years, I’ve never had to ask potential users to learn a shortcut to operate the software or tool.

[Stefanoko]

For your video tutorial, please use the correct terms and don't mix up notes with nodes, as you did in your comment. Unless you really meant notes (with a T at the end) when you talk about adding and moving them.

In my opinion, the most intuitive way for NEW users to operate a software for the first time, are the menus and especially the context menus, upon right-clicking the very item you intend to manipulate.

It is hard for me to think of a reason why I would mouse-travel away from a node I just selected in the tree. All the way across the screen to reach for a cryptic button that means nothing to me as a new user. When I have a descriptive command right under my right mouse button, right where I want the new child or sibling to appear.

[kd-chicago]

I was using this app, like, for 15 years. And I was totally comfortable with buttons. Changing the interface of any application with a long history - is a very, very bad idea. From all your responses it is obvious that your main motivation is: "because I want it that way". All the rationale you are making up is pretty much nonsense. Well, you want it that way - you are the boss. How about to come for a compromise: keep the menu shortcuts you are so fond of, AND return back icon buttons?

[Stefanoko]

All the rationale you are making up is pretty much nonsense. Well, you want it that way - you are the boss.

I do not understand your anger, neither do I deserve it. I am not the boss, and far from "making up" a rationale or telling others how wrong they are, I was simply pointing out an easy way to add a node via right-clicking. All this in relation to mgayamoreno's plan to create a tuturial for new users.

Rather than lashing out at me, why don't you tell me about the advantages of using toolbar icons over the context menu? Maybe I am missing out on something, then I would genuinely like to hear about it.

[dpradov]

When I removed those buttons, I did it to streamline the visual interface of certain elements. From my perspective, those toolbar buttons are much less intuitive and practical than using menu options and keyboard shortcuts. It's also far easier to find appropriate option names than to decipher icons. For example, there is an issue reported (Clarify options for Add Tree Node #673 ) that suggests names more convenient for these menu entries.

At least in my case, having used the application for many years, I've never actually used those icons because they always confused me. The differences between icons weren't clear, making them somewhat cryptic (and I wholeheartedly agree with @Stefanoko's opinion). Of course, this is just my personal viewpoint, as is anyone else's.

My intention wasn't to annoy anyone when I made those changes. I've added new functionalities that required new buttons—ones that are easily identifiable and independent. All the buttons related to adding nodes seemed unnecessary and expendable, so I made room for other features. I also acknowledge that at the time, I wasn't aware that the buttons could be hidden at will. I could have left them hidden by default, allowing users to make them visible if desired.

I'm dedicating a significant amount of my free time to making corrections and improvements to this application. The least I would appreciate is for things to be asked calmly and without demands. I make these changes with the best intentions, aiming to evolve the application. However, I don't force anyone to use the new versions; everyone is free to choose the version they prefer.

I'm aware that this application has been widely used, even before it was called KeyNote NF when Marek designed it. I've always tried to be cautious about changes that might impact the usability users are accustomed to. It won't be the first time I've rectified something I modified when a better approach is pointed out. This is what I have done for example in this version with the use of the shortcuts Ctrl+Shift+Up/Down (Paragraph selection and line viewing. #666) But I insist, the least I ask is that the tone be "lowered" and that things be asked and discussed with respect.

[kd-chicago]

I did it to streamline the visual interface of certain elements.

"Whenever I hear the word 'streamline' I reach for my pistol" (c) (or 'agile'or 'pay double price and get one item free!' ;)

I totally hear you. Under plenty of buzz words you are hiding one simple answer: "I did it because I want so". It is obvious you are not trying to listen to any arguments. So be it. Please stop making these lousy excuses, "streamline". Ha! How about keeping your menu shortcuts AND those icon buttons that were there, like, forever?