Avoid
changing the pointer, except to indicate the
current tool
Use pointer changes sparingly. A constantly
changing pointer is distracting and may actually interfere with explicit
pointer changes caused by the user. Pointer-based tools, such as found
in many drawing programs, are a good way to provide a large number of different
functions to the user. The trend is to provide common functions that can
be applied across a variety of objects, such as a coloring tool that might
be used to color text, bar graphs, buttons, or most any aspect of the interface.
If an individual object changes the pointer it may be taking control away
from the user and interfering with the user's intent.