ABSTRACT
A user interface is a point in the system where a human being interacts with a computer. This chapter discusses several different types of direct interfaces and the interface design process. It introduces some important principles of user interface design. The chapter focuses on certain general principles associated with direct user interface design. The interface can incorporate hardware, software, procedures, and data. Some user interfaces rely on abbreviated commands or acronyms. Command-based interfaces require considerable user training, however, and it is unreasonable to expect users to memorize all the commands without referencing a command template. Object-oriented interfaces, also called icon-based interfaces or graphic user interfaces, have become increasingly common since the introduction of the Apple Macintosh and Microsoft’s Windows operating systems. Expert system interfaces utilize natural language processing. The chapter also discusses strengths, weaknesses, and limitations associated with specific interfaces or interface design techniques.
