Which of the following is a good guideline about showing detail to users?

Question

Show users a much technical detail as possible so they can make an informed decision

Withhold all details from users because it will only confuse them

Show a level of detail that’s informative and useful to the user, and no more than that

Answer 1

Show a level of detail that’s informative and useful to the user, and no more than that.

 

This is courteous and appropriate; it may also involve information security and proprietary information.  Useful information helps users to make intelligent decisions.  Their main questions are answered and they know that additional information is available when needed.  As an example, when you buy a car, you may compare estimated mileage, but not want a detailed explanation about how the car can be powered by both electricity and combustion.

 

In addition, the principles of security clearance and need-to-know are applicable here.  There is danger in giving TMI.

 

An important consideration regards PII (personally identifiable information).  PLZ don't give your SSN, bank numbers, passwords, or other info without good reason and then only to people you trust.  The number one weakness in cyber security is people; they are easily tricked.  Most reputable companies and government agencies state that they will not use the telephone for gathering this information.