What is the best term to use?

[Ned Bedinger]

> 
> The current help refers to these tabs as 'applications' as each tab has its
> unique functionality.
> 

I'm picturing this as a problem that comes from trying to unify a suite 
of applications by leveraging an already established metaphor (tabs) 
that harks to file drawers, the metaphor that just keeps on giving. 
wow, the pendaflex hanging folder aesthetic, what visionary design :-(

Anyway, the problem, as I see it, is that when you think of the apps as 
tabs, then calling them applications feels wrong. But If you think of 
them as apps, then calling them tabs might seem awkward, or contrived by 
a marketing department that doesn't really understand the users, or 
whatever.

As one (myself) who was indoctrinated at an early age to the philosophy 
of computing using small apps that each do a limited thing, I'm pretty 
jaded by big software and the appearance of ever more features creeping 
into everything.  The productivity software on my PC designates my main 
application as a word processor, but it lets me edit pictures and create 
spreadsheets directly without leaving the word processor. Your tabbed 
software reminds me of that philosophy of design, which I think loses 
sight of the fact that it could probably do what it does just as well 
without the tabs and geegaws. But I don't know, maybe the tabbed 
interface lets users navigate the programs with fewer clicks or something.

Anyway, if you're facing this problem because you have to write about 
it, you can't really go wrong sticking with the terminology of the 
vendor who makes the software. You'll be promoting consistency, which is 
a prime directive for us in most cases. If you do decide to brsnch out 
and call the tabs 'function collections' or 'programs', I'd suggest you 
watch your back, because your preferred terminology might be a 
trade-off, confusing some people (who will complain to your manager) 
even as it makes better sense to others.

Good luck.

Ned Bedinger
doc at edwordsmith.com