Types of Human Computer Interface (HCI)

Types of Human Computer Interface (HCI)

1. Command line interface

   • Advantages
     • It doesn't use graphics so it is less demanding on a systems resources
       • Less computer memory
     • Contains many options that are not otherwise available without a third party software
     • Complex commands can be entered quickly
   • Disadvantages
     • Requires devotion and learning
     • Commands need to be memorized
     • Can be frustrating
     • Reference manuals are often needed
   • Not ideal for
     • Beginners and intermediate users
   • Ideal for
     • Experienced users
     • Expert users

2. Menu driven interface

   • Advantages
     • Restricted options a user can select
     • Used effectively with a touch screen
   • Ideal for
     • Inexperienced users
     • Occasional Users
     • Situations when the users requirements are known in advance
   • Not ideal for
     • Speedy operations
   • Disadvantages
     • can also down use of the system as set routes have to be followed

3. Graphical user interface (GUI)

   • Advantages
     • User Friendly
     • Intuitive
     • Use of sound and video made use of
     • Most operating systems come with this sort of interface
   • Disadvantages
     • demanding in terms of system resources e.g. hard disk and memory
   • Ideal for
     • Inexperienced users
   • Not ideal for
     • Experienced users (may resent working through levels of directions and menus)

4. On-screen forms

   • Advantages
     • Similar to paper forms
     • Intuitive
     • Variety of data-entry techniques
     • Automatically validated (reduces chance of error
   • Disadvantages
     • Demanding in terms of system resources e.g. hard disk and memory
   • Ideal for
     • Filling in questionnaires, ordering goods
   • Not ideal for
     • Experienced users

5. Natural Language interface

   • Advantages
     • Natural to all
     • Express freely without constraint
     • No special training required
     • Flexible
   • Disadvantages
     • ambiguous and imprecise
     • language is always changing
     • Some Words have different meanings
   • Ideal for
     • Most types of users
   • Not ideal for
     • Deaf users?