Repository source: docs/plans/backlog/hide_numbers_focus_toggle_step1_solution_assessment.md
Hide Numbers Focus Toggle Step 1 Solution Assessment
Problem Statement
Users need an optional focus mode that hides counts, dates, likes, and similar numbers while preserving access for admins and power users. Source: thread-20260826025809-1722b84b, submitted 2026-08-26T02:58:09Z.
Option A: Add a local JS toggle that hides nonessential numbers
Pros:
Fast and reversible.
No server-side identity or preference storage needed.
Good first test of the experience.
Cons:
Preferences may not follow users across browsers.
Needs careful exclusions for moderation and accessibility.
Option B: Add a persisted per-user display preference
Pros:
Stable across devices for signed-in users.
Can support role-specific defaults.
Cleaner long-term preference model.
Cons:
Requires user preference storage decisions.
Larger product and data contract.
Option C: Remove counts globally
Pros:
Strongest focus-oriented design.
Simplifies the UI.
Cons:
Ignores users who need numbers.
Risky for moderation, admin, and auditing workflows.
Recommendation
Recommend Option A.
Brief justification:
A reversible local toggle tests the focus-mode value while keeping admin and moderation signals available.