1. 11.10 - Human-Computer Interface (HCI)
AS ICT Module 2
Human-Computer Interface (HCI)
Objectives:
Understand the need to facilitate an effective dialogue between humans and machines.
Explain the need to design systems which are appropriate to users at all levels and in different environments; the impact of clarity of structure and layout.
Describe how the user-interface can be designed for effective communication with the user.
Describe the advantages of common user interfaces between different generic application packages.
Describe the advantages and limitations of a natural language interface.

2. 11.10 - Human-Computer Interface (HCI)
The Importance of Good Interface Design
Users should be able to use an interface:
SAFELY
Tasks can be completed without risk – e.g. flying an aeroplane.
EFFECTIVELY
Being able to do the right task and do it well – e.g. videoing a TV programme
EFFICIENTLY
To carry out tasks quickly and correctly–e.g. at a Cash Point (ATM)
ENJOYABLE
Users should be able to enjoy what they are doing, not be frustrated by the interface – e.g. educational programs

3. 11.10 - Human-Computer Interface (HCI)
How to Design a Good Interface
There are four considerations for an interface designer:
WHO
Who is going to use the system, what are their ages, etc.?
WHAT
What tasks are they likely to want to perform? Repetitive, complex, simple, etc.
ENVIRONMENT
Where is the computer to be used? In a hazardous or noisy environment?
FEASIBILITY
What is technologically available? Designers should not add elements to the interface that cannot actually be carried out easily.

4. The ‘Common User Interface’
Human-Computer Interface (HCI)
The ‘Common User Interface’
The ‘common user interface’ is a concept important to all software interface designers. It means that switching between programs does not mean the user has to learn a totally different set of skills.
There are five advantages to the ‘common user interface’:
1 Increased speed of learning
2 Ease of use
3 Confidence for novice users
5 Greater range
of software
available to
the average
computer user
4 Increase the range of
solvable tasks by users