Introduction: Human Computer Interaction HFE 451/651 Dr. Gallimore Spring 2000

References Developing User Interfaces Ensuring Usability through product and process. Hix & Hartman, 1993. New York: John Wiley & Sons. User and task analysis for interface design. Hackos & Redish, 1998. New York: John Wiley & Sons.

Introduction Why worry about HCI? The user interface can make or break a software package 48-100% of code for an interactive system is used to support the interface Want to make the product usable As similar products become available to consumers, products that are designed for the user will have the market advantage

How would you define usability? Accomplish goals effectively and efficiently. Be perceived as usable. Transparent to the work the user is trying to accomplish.

Defining Usability Cont. Example characteristics ease of learning high speed low error rate subjective satisfaction retention over time Reflect work flows that are familiar or comfortable support users’ learning style encompass a design concept (metaphor or idiom) that is familiar to the users. Consistency of presentation use language and illustrations that are familiar or easy to learn

Focus on user not technology Focus should be on user and goals, not what technology can do.

User Interface Design User interface design is an art and a science. There is no formula. There is a process, recommendations and guidelines.

Focus of book and class To learn the process of designing user interfaces. The focus is not developing software that implements the interface.

The Process The process is user centered The user is considered at the beginning of the design process The process is iterative The process involves testing

The Process