Here are some tips that might help:
Musts:
A splash screen with the program title (gives you a chance to put a graphic on a form)
An about form (more detailed program info, including company name)
Things most people don't think of:
Alignment: This is probably the single biggest issue in making something look good, and it's also something everyone misses. Make sure all your elements are lined up exactly the same. Even the grid guide might not be sufficient. Draw a line and adjust everything on the line. Then delete the line. For titles, you can make sure they are always centered by extending the label or the field completely across the top.
Consistency: Each form should look alike in format. Use the same font, the same color choices, etc. Buttons should always be in the same place. Also another big issue that everyone misses.
Check spelling on the forms. Make sure everything is spelled out.
Row selectors, navigation buttons, and dividing lines: If these aren't needed, turn them off. Forms simply look better without these elements.
Button Location: The buttons should be along either the right side or the bottom--basically, what you'd expect to see in any program.
Microsoft also has a white paper on user interfaces on their web site.
Linda Adams
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