Autosave and drafts
Autosave and drafts are features that automatically save user progress at regular intervals or when specific actions are performed. This pattern helps prevent data loss and allows users to easily resume their work, even if they're interrupted or experience technical issues.
Benefits and Use Cases
Prevents data loss. Autosave ensures that user work is not lost due to accidental closures, crashes, or connection issues.
Example
In Cluster's content editor, implement autosave to preserve user's work every few minutes or after significant changes.
Reduces user anxiety. Knowing their work is automatically saved can make users feel more secure and focused on their tasks.
Example
Show a subtle "Changes saved" indicator in Cluster's interface to reassure users that their work is being preserved.
Supports non-linear workflows. Drafts allow users to work on multiple items simultaneously and return to them later.
Example
Provide a "Drafts" section in Cluster where users can access all their in-progress content across different projects.
Improves user experience. Autosave and drafts can create a seamless experience across devices and sessions.
Example
Allow Cluster users to start working on content on their desktop and seamlessly continue on their mobile device using autosaved progress.
Psychological Principles Supported
Peace of Mind. Autosave reduces cognitive load by alleviating the need for users to remember to save their work manually.
Example
In Cluster's AI-assisted writing feature, automatically save different versions as the user accepts or rejects AI suggestions.
Continuity. Drafts support the principle of continuity, allowing users to easily resume tasks across different sessions or devices.
Example
When a Cluster user logs in, show a notification about any drafts they have in progress, making it easy to pick up where they left off.
Loss Aversion. Autosave addresses the psychological principle of loss aversion by protecting users from losing their work.
Example
If a user's session in Cluster unexpectedly ends, ensure that all their recent changes are preserved in an autosaved draft.
Implementation Guidelines
DON'T
Rely solely on autosave without giving users control over saving
Overwrite previous versions without giving users the ability to revert changes
Forget to handle conflicts in collaborative editing scenarios
Autosave trivial or temporary changes that don't need to be preserved
Neglect to provide an easy way for users to discard drafts they no longer need
DO
Implement autosave at regular intervals and after significant changes
Provide clear, unobtrusive feedback when autosave occurs
Allow users to manually save in addition to autosave
Implement a robust draft management system with easy access and organization
Ensure autosave works across different devices and platforms