benchide

Benchide is a term that has gained some traction in online communities, particularly those discussing user interfaces and software design. It refers to a specific type of user interface element or design pattern that is visible or present but not actively engaged with by the user at a given moment. Essentially, it's a functional component that is "on the bench" or waiting for potential use, rather than being the primary focus of interaction.

The concept of benchide elements can apply to various contexts. For example, in a mobile application, a secondary menu that is accessible but not currently open could be considered a benchide element. Similarly, a set of advanced settings in a desktop application that a user might access occasionally but doesn't interact with daily could also fall under this description. The key characteristic is its state of availability without active engagement.

The term is not a formally recognized design principle within established human-computer interaction literature. Instead, it appears to have emerged organically within specific online discussions as a convenient way to categorize and discuss these particular UI states. Understanding benchide elements can be helpful in evaluating the overall usability and efficiency of an interface, as designers often aim to present essential information and controls prominently while keeping less frequently used options accessible but out of the way. The presence and discoverability of benchide elements can influence how users perceive the complexity and learnability of a system.