The user interface to CD-ROM databases

Abstract

The article discusses CD-ROM user interfaces under the following headings: 'Dialogue transaction' (command languages, full-screen menus, pull-down/pop-up menus, command menus, direct manipula tion and natural language); 'Input devices' (keyboard, mouse, touch- screen and voice); 'Display features' (layout, colour, sound and response time); 'User assistance' (error mes sages, on-screen help, on-screen tutorials and manuals/quick refer ence cards) and 'Reliability and robustness'.