Progress Indicators
Edit this pageProgress indicators communicate the progress of system processes such as downloading, uploading, loading data, or multi-step user flows. They provide visual feedback to users about the current state of operations and help set appropriate expectations for completion time.
Visual FeedbackAccessibilityPerformanceUser ExperienceARIA Compliant
Primary Purpose of Progress Indicators
Understanding when and why to use progress indicators in your interface design.
Core Purpose
- • System Feedback: Show ongoing system processes
- • Time Estimation: Help users understand wait times
- • Process Status: Indicate completion percentage
- • User Guidance: Show progress in multi-step flows
Progress Types
Determinate:
- • Known duration or completion percentage
- • File uploads, downloads, installations
- • Multi-step forms or wizards
Indeterminate:
- • Unknown duration or progress
- • Data processing, API calls
- • System initialization
Common Use Cases
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45%
References & Further Reading
Essential resources for progress indicator implementation and best practices from leading design systems.