When to use
Use the Paginator component when displaying long lists of data that need to be broken down into smaller, more manageable sections. Paginator is especially useful when users need to scan through multiple pages quickly, or when the data is presented in a way that makes scrolling difficult.
When not to use
Avoid using Paginator for short lists of data, where displaying all items on a single page is feasible. Paginator can also be confusing if the page numbers or navigation buttons are not clearly labeled, or if the user interface is not intuitive.
Behaviour
Regarding the behaviour of the Paginator component, it's important to note that on the first page, the 'Previous' button is disabled. This guides users intuitively through the paged data and prevents them from attempting to navigate before the starting point.
Placement
The Paginator is usually placed below the data it controls, letting users view the data first and decide if they need to change pages. While often used for large tables, it can also work with lists, cards, or other extensive data types.
The Paginator should be in the same area as the data it manages. This shows that it is connected to the displayed data and controls its navigation and display.
Accessibility considerations
Designing for accessibility is key to make sure everyone can use the content no matter their abilities. Things to think about include making content clear and easy to understand, using Aria labels for people using technology to help them, and giving non-text content alternate text.
When you use a paginator to move around data tables, it's important not to hide important data behind a click of the paginator. This keeps key data easy to get to for all users, cuts down on unnecessary clicks, and makes the user experience better.
Also, when thinking about people using a keyboard, having lots of buttons they can focus on in a data table can be annoying. It means they have to press more keys to get to the paginator, which can be frustrating. So, when using a paginator to look at data, it's best not to put focusable buttons in the table. Try other design methods that make it easier to move around and make your design more accessible.