Human-Computer Interaction Overview

Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)

• HCI is a discipline concerned with the design, evaluation, and implementation of interactive computing systems for human use.
• It involves the study of the major phenomena surrounding them.
• HCI is important because it helps to create usable systems that are easy to interact with.

Factors Influencing HCI

Computer

• Different devices such as smartphones, desktops, and kiosks
• Capabilities and limitations of computing devices including processing power.
• Operating systems play a vital role in the design and functionality of user interfaces.
• Rapidly changing interface technology requires ongoing adaptation.

Human

• Different users bring a wide range of abilities, skills, and experiences.
• Users have different conceptions and mental models of how technology should function.
• Learning styles, knowledge retention, and skill levels vary among users.
• Social aspects, like cultural and national differences, influence user interface design.
• The digital divide refers to the gap in access to technology and related skills, which is another crucial factor in HCI.

User Interface (UI)

• The UI is the part of an application that allows users to interact with computers and the interface to communicate results back to the user.
• HCI encompasses the design, implementation, and evaluation of UIs.

Different Perspectives of HCI

• Task: How users complete tasks and interact with systems.
• Design: The process of creating and improving the user interface.
• Technology: The hardware and software used by the system.
• Human: The users’ mental models, cognitive abilities, and overall experience.

Good Design

• User-Centered Design (UCD) is a process and outcome of designing with the user's needs in mind.

Specific User Interface Design Principles

• If elements are replicated across multiple screens, they should be placed in consistent positions for improved user experience.
• Using all uppercase letters is difficult to read and can be perceived as shouting.

Cost of Bad Design

• Poor interface design can lead to frustration and wasted time, and can even have serious consequences in critical applications.
• Frustration can be experienced when users encounter cryptic icons, unnecessarily deep menus, or an excessive amount of pop-up dialog boxes.