Target Expansion

An interaction technique where clickable interface elements dynamically grow in size as the cursor approaches, making them easier to select while conserving screen space when not being targeted. Research shows target expansion can reduce selection times by up to 14% and error rates by up to 50% for older adults. The technique is particularly beneficial for users with motor impairments or age-related declines in fine motor control. For expansion to be effective, both the visual appearance and the actual clickable area (motor space) must enlarge—visual expansion alone provides no performance benefit.