We’ve just released a major UI overhaul for the desktop and mobile websites.  We had two major goals with this project: first, reduce the variation between the desktop web, mobile web, and app UIs.  And second, address some recurring issues around discoverability and ease of use.

 

 

The UI is now better grouped by functional area.  We’ve moved your account data into the top bar, so that the left bar is dedicated to map objects, and most mapping related functions are on the map itself.  We’ve also replaced the mouseover menus. An more in depth overview of the new UI with comparisons to the previous UI is found here.

 

Other major changes include:

• Keyboard shortcuts for commonly-used tasks
• Clicking on the map brings up info for all nearby objects – no more struggling to click on exactly the right spot
• We now have separate “Log In” and “Sign Up” actions to help people catch when they accidentally login with a new account provider
• Rendering object labels with halos instead of large white blocks, to improve label visibility on complex maps
  

 

On the left side of the map the map objects list is now solely focused on map objects including importing, exporting, and adding new objects.  When minimized, the add button moves onto the map so you have more room to work! 

 

 

Tasks such as printing, measuring, saving, and sharing maps have moved onto the map and menus now are based on a click instead of mouseover.

 

 

The right side of the screen remains largely unchanged, with layers listed on the left, and the preset layers at the bottom on the left side. Note many layers now have keyboard shortcuts, you’ll see those listed next to the base layer you select on the right hand side (if the base layer has a shortcut), and next to a variety of overlays on the right as well. 

 

 

One of the largest changes is that the top bar is now primarily focused on account level tasks such as log in, creating accounts, managing your account or team data, and managing your subscription.

 

As with any update there may be inadvertent errors or omissions. We’re always here for you at caltopo.com/help and over time we’ll update screenshots throughout our excellent user guide to reflect the new UI. Thanks for supporting CalTopo!