TOPIC 3: HCI FACTORS

TOPIC 3: HCI FACTORS

1. Consistency of signposting and pop up information.

   • Similar objects throughout the interface should ideally be in the same position on each screen using the same icon. This makes the HCI intuitive – the user knows where on the screen to ‘look’ for common items e.g. next button always in the same place on different screens.

2. On screen help.

   • On-screen help is help which is built-in and easily accessible in the software e.g. wizards, tool tips telling the user what to do.

3. Layout appropriate to task.

   • There should be a standard ‘feel’ to the software which is appropriate to the specific user group and the task being performed.

4. Differentiation between user expertise

   • Novice users will need clear instruction giving a step by step guide telling them how to carry out a task in the software e.g. using wizards/built-in tutorials (not from the internet). Giving a clear navigational structure with intuitive routes through the software. When designing a HCI for a novice user, the main priority is ease of use. An expert user already knows commands and would find it quicker to use these than following a step by step guide (wizards). They will utilise shortcuts to avoid navigating through lots of menus. Therefore when designing a HCI for an expert user, the main priority is allowing them to perform tasks in the shortest possible time. In addition, it would be useful to include a number of ways to carry out the same task.

5. Clear navigational structure.

   • Ensuring the software offers intuitive routes through the system to allow the user to ‘learn their way’ around the system e.g. a home button always in the same place on different screens/ menu structure is obvious (intuitive). Buttons to proceed or go back are clearly marked by a label or an icon etc. If consistency is applied to the navigation around the system users will not have to keep learning different routes and it will speed up the rate at which they learn to navigate.

6. Use by disabled people

   • Disabilities come in all kinds of forms and are not just limited to physical disability; some users of IT systems might be blind or partially sighted or deaf. Colour blindness is another issue for software developers to take into account.