An input control by definition is the necessary measures that you put in place to ensure that inputted data is correct, complete and secure (Shelly and Rosenblatt, 2012). Input Controls are an integral part to any form. They allow a user to perform a variety of functions, e.g., type in text, select items from a list, upload a file, etc. They help to provide a framework for the kind of data that will be submitted by users. Selecting the correct input control for a data field is critical. Most input controls are visual and interactive. Input controls can be used to store system critical data, such as database key data, that the user does not need to interact with. .
A company must do everything in its power to protect its data. This includes not only the firm’s own information, but that of its customers, employees, and suppliers. In this paper I will be describing four types of input controls, in user interface design, and their primary functions. Input Controls Input controls are, in a sense, fail safes that ensure that data is entered correctly, completely, and securely, in order to complete forms. As a systems analyst, one must focus on input control in every step of input design. There are many types of input control that can be implemented during the design process; all of which have a function necessary to maintain the integrity of the transaction. Input Controls are designed to replace the simple text input controls that are created when query variables are found in query text or wizard filter sets. The available input controls are the HTML form elements such as select lists, radio buttons, check boxes, etc. There are many types of input controls that can be used in various applications. For example you have the drop-down list box, the text box, an option button, or radio button, and a check box, just to name a few. A list box displays a list of choices that the user can select. The drop- down list box displays the current selection; when the user clicks the arrow, a list of the available choices displays.” (Shelly & Rosenblatt, 2012) This input control method is used when there are only a specific number of choices to be made. A common example for the drop-down list is when a user is being asked in which state they reside. A scroll bar allows the user to move through the available choices. The user clicks on their selection and the drop-down list box displays the current selection in the form (Microsoft, 2014). Another type of input control is the standard text box. The text box can display messages or provide a place for the user to enter data. The text box is used when the system requires the user to type information such as city names, airport codes, or web page addresses. When using a text box, it is often helpful to use an auto complete function to help ensure proper data entry. This would be beneficial when the number of choices are too numerous to be displayed in a drop down list box. An option button, or radio button, represents one choice in a set of options. The user can select only one option at a time, and selected options show a black dot. A check box is used to select one or more choices from a group. Selected options are represented by a check mark or an X. (Rosenblatt & Shelly, 2012) Input Control Types and Functionality There are many types of input controls that can be used in various applications. Four crucial input controls are audit trails, data security policies, access level creation, and encryption. Audit trails record the source of each data item and the time that it was entered into the system. An audit trail must show not only the original source of the data, but how and why the data is changed and the person who changed it. This allows a clear
