May I add just one specific type of label which irritates me to the
useful list of problem types given by Robin Barron? It is the text
applied directly to the transparent front of a glass display case, or
other transparent backing, so that you have to read the text against
the background of the objects displayed or whatever other clutter you
happen to see through the panel. Presumably the designer's objective is
to avoid detracting from the display of objects by having labels among
them.
 
Not only is it difficult to read the text on transparent panels, especially
as it is often in thin or low-contrast type, but it is impossible to
illuminate it adequately and you have to keep re-focussing your eyes
between the near label and the distant object. I like to see the label
and object side-by-side so that I can look at both together.
 
For the same reason I don't like displays which have little numbers
beside the objects, making you refer to an index label at the corner of
the case. The only time this may be justified is if the objects are
displayed in a realistic reconstruction of a setting, but even then
labels directly on the objects are welcome if they are legible and not
too obtrusive.
 
Leonard Will
 
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Dr Leonard D Will                           Tel: +44 181 366 7386
Information Management Consultant           Fax: +44 181 366 0916
27 Calshot Way, ENFIELD, Middlesex          Email: [log in to unmask]
EN2 7BQ, United Kingdom