For quite some time, while using various scripts with dialogs I’ve created, I’ve noticed they could be far more useful if they were somewhat "integrated" or attached to the lister/viewer window instead of appearing as separate dialogs. Something akin to the Viewer or Metadata Panel—a dedicated panel for displaying script dialogs.
Considering recent requests for more customization in the Metadata Panel or additional options for tags, etc., script dialogs already provide effective solutions for such scenarios. So, maybe this idea isn’t as impractical as I initially thought. In fact, it might even serve a niche purpose!
Here’s an example: some time ago, I wrote a script to improve file tagging. Currently, you can open a dialog and "force" a viewer window to stay attached to it. While it works, it’s not particularly intuitive.
If the content of the script dialog could be embedded in a panel alongside the lister or viewer, its use would be much smoother and more seamless than the current approach.
Image edited for better understanding
This feature could have many applications, as scripts are highly versatile. The panel itself wouldn’t perform any additional functions—it would simply act as a container for the script dialog.
How It Could Work
- The functionality of the panel would still depend entirely on the script. The panel wouldn’t add new capabilities; it would simply display the script dialog.
- A script could specify, before creating its dialog, whether or not to display it in this panel (so one can decide this in its command through an argument or flag).
- If displayed in the panel, the dialog should become resizable, adapting to the panel’s size in much the same way current script dialogs can be resized manually.
Advantages
- Improved workflow by minimizing window switching.
- Enhanced usability for tasks requiring constant interaction with scripts.
- Greater customization potential for (power) users.
This isn’t meant as a feature request just yet, as I’m unsure whether it’s feasible to implement or if it’s even a good idea. I’d like to hear your opinions.
Thanks.