Human Computer Interface

Human Computer Interface

1. Interface

   • A term used to describe the interaction between the user and a computer. The method by which the user tells the computer what to do and the responses which the computer makes
   • The user interface an important function of any type of software regardless of whether or not it is an operating system or an application

2. Command Line Interface

   • User inputs commands to tell the computer what to do
     • Very little help is given
     • Commands enable a user to quickly and concisely instruct the computer what to do
     • User requires the knowledge of the commands available and the syntax for using them

3. Menu Interface

   • User has options to chose from.
     • Pull down menu – displayed along the top of a screen. When the user clicks on an item, a submenu appears.
     • Pop-up menu – menu pops up due to a response, say, a click of the right mouse button on a particular area of the screen.
     • Words rather than icons, not universally usable due to people speaking different languages.

4. Forms & Dialogue Boxes

   • A form is used to enter data, such as customers names.
   • East way to input data into a database through a website

5. Office Toolbar

   • Uses icons so the software can be used by people who speak any language
   • Removes the plain language menus so it is universal.

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