Google Docs updates toolbar menu with top features

We love when developers listen to the voices of users when they ask for a better user interface. A new announcement reveals that the toolbar menu in Google Docs on web browsers will receive an update. You’ll see fewer items in each menu and improved organization as a start.

The current menus in Google Docs have long lists that stretch over the page you’re working on. Not only that, but their organization means you generally hunt for the right function if you’re not used to the system. It seems as if the new update will address both issues in different ways.

The update notes mention how there will be fewer menu items in each tab. It makes us wonder if some functions will move elsewhere or if they will just add more menu tabs. One element we noticed immediately is that Google Docs will refer to Add-Ons as Extensions. It’s a strange decision, as that’s what sets it apart from Google Chrome extensions.

As for the organization of functions, you’ll see more helpful hints and shortcuts on the toolbar menu. Small icons will draw your attention to the features commonly used worldwide. They’re also located near the top of each menu, such as creating a new document being first on the File list instead of “Share”.

The new update shows us how a company can use the data it receives from users to good use. However, you won’t see the new functionality until the end of May when Google plans to distribute the changes. There also won’t be any new tools for admins, so the new features are primarily targeting end-users. We’re going to have to learn a new way of managing add-ons in Google Docs once it goes live.