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Multitasking
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avaia

@avaia

HardSaaS

Multitasking

Design a multitasking workspace for users who need to work across several items without losing context. The screen should support two or more active tasks at once: one primary task in focus, plus nearby tasks that can be monitored, swapped in, or parked for later.

Show how tasks are organized on the page. Use a split view, tabs, or a panel stack, but make the structure explicit. Include the controls users need to move between tasks, pin one in place, resize sections, and see what changed while they were away. The active task should be obvious; background tasks should still feel accessible, not hidden.

Design the moments that make multitasking hard: switching between tasks, handling interruptions, and returning to work after a notification. Preserve state in every task panel so typed text, selections, and progress do not disappear. Add clear cues for unread updates, background activity, and any task that needs attention before the user continues.

Cover the edge cases too: too many open tasks, a collapsed panel, a loading state, and a layout that still works on smaller screens. The result should feel calm, fast to scan, and easy to re-enter after a context switch.

What to deliver

  • Design a split-view workspace with two active tasks side by side.
  • Add a task switcher that shows open items, status, and unread changes.
  • Include drag, pin, and resize controls for rearranging panels.
  • Show a notification center or activity feed for background updates.
  • Define empty, loading, and overflow states for the multitask layout.

When crafting a design for multitasking, think about how pilots manage complex dashboards. Aim for that level of efficiency and intuitive control in your user interface.