Mobile IxD

Progressive disclosure means that complexity and secondary functionality are moved to one or more easily accessible secondary screens or menus. Additionally, it provides a means to progressively build a more detailed, more contextually-appropriate explanation of key content, features and functions. Progressive disclosure helps prevent the complexity of the product structure or concepts from overwhelming the user.

Note that it is possible to go too far, such that using your product becomes a chore for experienced users. Of course, if the expected typical user of your product is a novice or infrequent user, then this is a moot point. Performing a task analysis and user research helps mitigate the risk of going too far with progressive disclosure.

Use teasers to lure interested users away from the main screen or menu, which can include anything from an intriguing text label for an unfamiliar concept or feature to a selectable “learn more” element to provide additional, contextual description, and more
Determine if there are standards or pre-existing expectations for the complexity you are progressively disclosing – for example, if providing an “Edit” menu item, be sure to include “Cut”, “Copy” and “Paste” on the submenu
When appropriate, provide a summary view of the content first – for example, a banking product might display a balance of accounts on the main screen or hub and allow the user to select each account to list out the details

dave@mobileixd.com