Human Design Interface

In Week 6, Matt discussed the implications of Human Interface Design specifically accessibility and usability when designing and selecting web pages and websites for use in the classroom. Accessibility is mostly concerned with building a website that will work with various 3rd tools and meets current accessibility standards and requirements. Usability refers to how easy to use or the friendliness of the software. Usable software is efficient, easy to learn and simple to use. Software that is usable leads to courageous users who aren’t scared that the software will crash.

Some points to consider when determining whether software is usable:

Metaphors: using the same icons throughout the software, for example a dashboard and a trash can. Using the metaphors throughout your software helps users to quickly identify themes and how the software will work and what actions certain buttons and icons perform.

Familiarity: when using the software does the way it works feel similar to previous experiences using other software. Software that is “familiar” is quick and simple to learn and use.

Control: What level does the user have over the actions of the software.

Forgiveness: does the software punish you for your errors. How does the software respond to errors.

Stability: when using open-source software selecting the latest stable version would be preferred to using a “nightly build.”

Interoperability: Can the program be across systems, is the data exportable and importable using open standards.

Accessibility

Its the law for Government Departments to create public facing websites that meet accessibility standards so that they can be used people with disabilities.

• Doesn’t require a particular browser
• Doesn’t require flash or javascript
• Doesn’t need a mouse
• Doesn’t require on graphics or colours to provide information
• Isn’t unduly complex

Links

WSC
Apple development
eGovernment Resource Centre
DEECD Developer Resource Kit

Task
Have a look at the websites you’re using with your classes. Are they useable and do they meet accessibility guidelines?