1. CS5540 HCI Assignment 1 Affordance and Mapping Hiba Al-Zahawi

2. 2 Definitions Affordance: 1.The set of characteristics of an object that visually define the object’s functionality. 2.How well an object visually conveys its functionality to the user. Mapping: 1.The relationship between the physical design and the functionality of an object. 2.How well the physical design of an object is suited for that object’s functionality.

3. 3 Good and Poor Examples AffordanceMapping Good A light switch Light dimmer – slider Poor A touch-based lamp Light dimmer – knob

4. 4 Ex 1: Good Affordance “A light switch” Records current state of light: on/off Limits position and movement of switch: up/down

5. 5 Ex 2: Poor Affordance “A touch-based lamp” Missing the “expected” parts ---- no switch/button! Prior knowledge is required for proper usage Confusing!

6. 6 Ex 3: Good Mapping “Light dimmer - Slider” Up/Down movement implies the notion of More/Less Well defined maximum/minimum range of motion

7. 7 Ex 4: Poor Mapping “Light dimmer – knob” Which direction is more? No indicated limit on range of motion – could turn indefinitely!

8. 8 The End Questions?