Multi-select

Multi-select allows users to choose more than one option from a list. It is used in filters, tag assignment, bulk operations, and configuration flows where multiple simultaneous selections are valid.


When to use

  • When users need to apply multiple filters at the same time.
  • When assigning multiple tags, owners, or categories to an asset.
  • Do not use multi-select when only one selection is valid - use a single-select dropdown or radio buttons instead.

Style

  • Label the control with a short noun phrase describing the category being selected. For example, Data domains or Owners.
  • Show selected values as chips or tokens inside the input field.
  • Keep chip labels concise - use the item name only, not additional metadata.
  • Use Select all and Clear all as action labels when applicable.

Behavior

  • Show a count of selected items when the list collapses. For example, 3 selected.
  • Allow individual chip removal via a close icon on each chip.
  • Keep the dropdown open until the user clicks outside or presses Escape.

Do / Don’t

Do Don’t
3 selected 3 items have been selected
Clear all Remove all selections
Select all Check all

Actian Data Intelligence — Content Guidelines