Saturday, February 7, 2015

copywriting - What's a better label for the traditional "Browse..." button for selecting files to upload?


I've been working on an advanced file uploader, complete with folders and animated progress bars, and wanted to improve the vague "browse" button generally used for launching a file selector window. Since the uploader I'm working on primarily supports drag-drop for upload, with a "browse" button as a secondary option, I have the freedom to label it whatever I want.


There are a lot of custom labels I've seen used for this button, and each browser has their own default as well.



Some examples:


Browser comparison found via Google, "Browse, Choose, and Choose File":





Wordpress "Select Files":





Dropbox "Choose Files":






I'm curious if people think it's a good or bad idea to stray from the default.


The label I'm leading towards is "Select Files from Computer." I think what's missing from the other labels is what files you're going to be browsing/choosing/selecting from, distinguishing between files already uploaded to the website vs. files stored on your local system.



Answer



I would go with Dropbox's approach.


'Choose files' is clear enough to tell you the action it performs and concise enough to fit within two words. 'Select files' also works.


When labeling buttons, try to explain what the button does. Are choosing files and uploading two steps or a single step? Since in dropbox's case, you choose the files and then press 'upload'.


The labeling of wordpress drag-and-drop area is also quite accurate and clear.



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