Blockly Developer Summit 2018: Tips for Creating a Block Language with Blockly

Design a block language with Blockly: gain insights on prioritizing clarity, using natural language, and more to create an intuitive and user-friendly experience.

Key takeaways
  • Design for clarity: When designing a block language, prioritize clarity and simplicity to facilitate ease of use.
  • Use natural language: Natural language blocks help eliminate ambiguity and provide a more intuitive experience.
  • Limit parameter options: Restrict parameter options to one or two for easier understanding and use.
  • Embed blocks and fields as fillers: Embed blocks and fields as fillers to allow for more flexibility and customization.
  • Consider user cultural experience: Leverage user cultural experience and regional variations to adapt the block language.
  • Use iconic languages: Iconic languages and representations help build visual understandings and connections.
  • Make theme customization possible: Allow for theme customization and swapping to adapt to different cultural or regional contexts.
  • Build simplicity for younger users: Design for simplicity, considering the needs of younger, one-time users.
  • Reliable color palette: Develop a reliable and consistent color palette for easier color theme customization.
  • Grammar complexity: Consider grammar complexity and vocabulary size when designing a block language.
  • Icon recognition: Ensure icons are recognizable and legible, as they play a crucial role in the block language.
  • Technical language support: Support technical language for more advanced users and developers.
  • Block vocabulary: Understand and manage block vocabulary to provide a comprehensive language.