[Mediawiki-l] Break out links-How are they done?

[Jan Steinman]

> From: "David Spencer, MediaWiki User" <wikipedia.org at davidspencer.ca>
>
> 3. FYI... I am a Mac user...

Ah, that explains a lot!

I think Mac users are more tolerant and understanding of "break out  
links" because they are used to the "messy desktop" metaphor. I very  
much prefer a site to open a new window when I can clearly see the  
window opening (with the "genie" effect) and can see my old window  
behind it.

I changed an older version of MediaWiki to make all external links  
open in new windows. Then I started getting complaints from Windows  
users. Then I tried it on Windows, and understood: the "clean  
desktop" metaphor is the culprit! The new window completely covers  
the old one, and the back button is disabled. The poor user is warped  
off into some new world, without any clue how to get back.

Personally, I prefer the "messy desktop" metaphor -- reminds me of my  
own physical desktop. :-) But it might be nice to have a preference  
to allow the end user to choose how external links are opened. I know  
I'd set it to open new windows, and understand that many others would  
not.

:::: Jan Steinman, Communication Steward, EcoReality: http:// 
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