Overview of Tree Variants

Name

Display

Description

Simple tree

The simple tree represents the "traditional" variant, in which only a small amount of information, such as the name, is displayed for an object. As a result, this type of tree is extremely well-suited for navigating between objects in an "attached" window area.

List tree

The list tree display largely corresponds to the existing SEUT trees. In addition to naming the additional tree elements, the structures contain a variety of other useful information, such as status and additional texts.

Due to the amount of information displayed, such trees require significantly more space on the screen (or requires horizontal scrolling) and are therefore suitable for applications that use the tree as the primary screen area.

Column tree

a) With header area

The column tree is a mixture of a tree (hierarchical display) and a table control (variable columns with headers). In addition, this type of tree can use pushbuttons and checkboxes in the columns, in addition to text and icons.

The problem with this type of tree is that longer entries are cut off at the point where the next column begins, and only the first (left-most) tree area supports horizontal scrolling. If the text alignment (right/left-aligned) differs as well, the display can quickly become confusing.

Column tree

b) Without header area

The column tree can also be used without the header area. As a result, however, the individual columns do not have a fixed width. Each entry in the tree fills the columns variably. Especially when combined with indentation in the tree structure, this design can be very confusing and difficult to read.

Column tree

c) ALV tree

The ALV tree is a variant of the column tree that also contains its own toolbar and a title area.

Table 1: Overview and Function of Tree Variants

Design and Layout

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Overview of Tree Variants

Source: SAP R/3 Style Guide