Main Types of User Interfaces - Assignment Example

User Interfaces User Interfaces Introduction The user interface is the visible part of a computer application or an operating systemthrough which the user interacts with the software of the computer. It is usually the determinant of the commands that are given to the computer and the information display on the screen (Wilson, 2012). It is the space where the interactions of/between machines and humans occur, with their goal being to allow effective operation as well as control of the machine from the user end (Castillejo, Almeida and López-de-Ipiña, 2014). The machine feeds the back information simultaneously to aid operators in the process of making decisions. As an operator settles on the kind of interface to use they should endeavor to make it easy, enjoyable and efficient. Common user interfaces There are three main types of user interfaces including web based interface, which requires for the user to accept the input and provide the output, the command line interface where the user offers inputs by typing command strings and the system provides output and the graphical user interface whereby the user gives commands through the selection and clicking on icons that are displayed on the screen (Mandel, 1997). In the past, computer software was designed without considering the end users of the same. Today, it is becoming increasingly important to consider them otherwise it may not offer much help, as users interact more frequently with them. Graphic user interface Graphic user interface usually relies more on the mouse. It is for example, the type of interface that is used in any version of the Windows Operating System. It is mainly used because it requires less expert knowledge to use and it is very easy to navigate, for instance it is possible for one to look through the folders and files in it quickly (Wilson, 2012). It is mainly disadvantaged because it has fewer options as compared to other interfaces, and it has fewer options for customization. It is not very easy to use only one button for many variations (Mandel, 1997). Graphic user interfaces are very common in modern computing. Touch screens are models of the same that replace the mouse. Web-based user interface The web based user interface is the one used to foster the interaction between the user and software that is running on a web server. It is the web browser and web page that it has downloaded and then rendered (Mandel, 1997). It can also be defined as a programming connection to the internet. It contains features such as multiuser or concurrent access and granular administration. Users are able to log on to and to navigate through web browsers such as internet explorer and Google Chrome (Castillejo, Almeida and López-de-Ipiña, 2014). They offer an option for logging in securely and the transaction of databases that are automatically logged. Command-line user interface A command line interface is one whereby the user responds to a prompt on the monitor by typing in a command on a line that is usually specified. The user then receives a response from the system and they may or may not enter another command (Wilson, 2012). This interface requires for the commands to be correctly typed and in the right order. In order to be able to work quickly, one needs to be experienced. They do not need the memory or processing power of the newest computers to be able to run as they can run on low spec machines. They also do not require to be run in Windows, but can run many programs such as batch files. Mandel’s Golden rules Theo Mandel put in place rules that govern the designing of user interfaces that are without regard of the domain, the type and the device for which the user interface is intended for. These rules have been discussed in various forums and have been largely seen as applicable (Mandel, 1997). They are divided into three groups; placing the users in control, reducing their memory load and making the interface be consistent. While making the interface consistent, it needs to sustain the context of users and maintain consistency within products (Castillejo, Almeida and López-de-Ipiña, 2014). It also needs always to produce the expected results and provide an appeal that informs the attitude of the users. Finally, it needs to encourage the user to explore. An interface that places users in control has modes that are well used, is flexible and not easy to interrupt. It should be able to display helpful information and provide room for mistakes or rather, reversible actions. The interface should offer paths that are easy to navigate, and yet be able to accommodate for people with different skills (Mandel, 1997). It should allow for the preferences of the user and allow them to manipulate its objects. In order to reduce the user’s memory load, they should be forgiving, promote organization of data, be intuitive and provide visual cues. They should be able to relieve short term memories by for instance remembering passwords. Interface analysis The graphic user interface allows the user to be able to control it. It is easy to use and can be used by both experienced and inexperienced people. It is pretty plain and does not offer aesthetic appeal that would encourage its use (Mandel, 1997). It does not allow the users to customize it to their preferences, that is, even though that option is available, it is against a set that is already established thus presenting a limit. It provides the default undo and redo options that make it forgiving and provide room for error. The web-based interface reduces the user’s memory load. It offers options for one to save their passwords, for instance, when they log in to a social network such as face book. As long as they permit it, it is well saved (Mandel, 1997). The interface also by asking for permission before saving the information rather than automatically saving, offers the user control over their information (Castillejo, Almeida and López-de-Ipiña, 2014). They offer an undo and redo button, as well as a refresh button at the sides in case one, performs an action accidentally or they wish to return to a page. They provide the user with an allure to keep using by the support of such as adverts on web pages for other sites. The command-line interface requires for one to remember a number of commands and is very specific in terms of their input rendering it very difficult to use by inexperienced people. It is plain and offers no aesthetic appeal for the users (Wilson, 2012). It is also very predictable in that upon entering a command in the way that one should, the result will be produced as should and thus contributing to its consistency (Mandel, 1997). In this type, there is rarely display of helpful information that aids in navigation. It does not reduce the user’s memory load; rather it increases it by requiring one to remember particular sets of commands. It also allows progressive disclosure of information. Conclusion The three interfaces are quite common each of them processing their set of qualities that make it appealing. However, none of them has completely met the requirements and so they have room for improvements (Wilson, 2012). The GUI can be improved by providing paths and exits that are easy to locate and improving its customization options. The web based interface can be made in a way that it provides a user progressive disclosure and the provision of visual cues (Castillejo, Almeida and López-de-Ipiña, 2014). The command line interface can be improved by being made able to accommodate for different levels of skills for users and to relieve short term memory therefore helping to ease the user’s memory load. References Castillejo, E., Almeida, A. and López-de-Ipiña, D. (2014). "Modelling users, context and devices for adaptive user interface systems", International Journal of Pervasive Computing and Communications, Vol. 10 Iss: 1, pp.69 - 91 Mandel, T. (1997). The elements of user interface design. New York: Wiley. Wilson, M. L. (2012). Search user interface design. San Rafael, Calif.: Morgan & Claypool Publishers. Read More