Sidebar Source List
A Sidebar Source List is a tree-like list at the side of a window. The chosen source or group sets what appears in the main area.
A real example
A photo library lists Library, Favorites, albums, and shared groups. The chosen collection fills the detail area.
Main parts
- 01Stable source groups
- 02Disclosure-enabled hierarchy rows
- 03Persistent selection highlight
- 04Main-pane destination mapping
Use it when
Use it when stable groups or places control the main view and people return to them often while they work.
Do not use it when
Avoid it for a one-time checklist or a short, flat action list. Each category should truly change the main content source.
Name used in code
NSOutlineView source-list style / SwiftUI NavigationSplitView Before you ship
Check the supported macOS versions and AppKit or SwiftUI integration. Check standard focus and keyboard behavior. Also check VoiceOver, Full Keyboard Access, window resizing, and multi-window state. When needed, check restore, localization, and reduced motion.
Outcome: Apply or review Sidebar Source List in a native macOS app without breaking platform rules. User context: A photo library lists Library, Favorites, albums, and shared groups. The chosen collection fills the detail area. macOS concept or control: Sidebar Source List. Why it fits: Use it when stable groups or places control the main view and people return to them often while they work. Do not use it when: Avoid it for a one-time checklist or a short, flat action list. Each category should truly change the main content source. Platform requirements: List the supported macOS versions. Say whether AppKit or SwiftUI owns each part and how they connect. Define window, menu, focus, keyboard, saved state, restore, and multi-window behavior. Platform accessibility and resilience: Use the right accessibility APIs. Check VoiceOver and Full Keyboard Access. Support localization, contrast, and reduced motion when needed. Keep user state after a relaunch. Acceptance criteria: Check the behavior on supported macOS versions with a keyboard and VoiceOver. Window resizing, focus, state restore, and AppKit or SwiftUI integration work in the normal macOS way. Evidence and limits (evidence boundary): It is official for that source. Other platforms or teams may use the term in another way. Unknowns to confirm: Supported macOS versions, AppKit or SwiftUI structure, and window model. Also confirm sandbox and entitlement limits, save rules, and the accessibility goal.
Check this request
Review the current use of Sidebar Source List. Definition: A Sidebar Source List is a tree-like list at the side of a window. The chosen source or group sets what appears in the main area. Release checks: Check the supported macOS versions and AppKit or SwiftUI integration. Check standard focus and keyboard behavior. Also check VoiceOver, Full Keyboard Access, window resizing, and multi-window state. When needed, check restore, localization, and reduced motion. Before changing code, report the evidence you found, gaps, severity, and the smallest safe fix.