Developing Interactive Guidelines for Software User Interface Design: A Case Study

Abstract

There have been numerous methodologies, models, and tools created to support successful user-system interface (USI) design. One such tool is USI design guidelines, which is important for both software developers and human factors professionals in developing a good user interface. This paper discusses the creation of interactive USI design guidelines intended for software developers to use when creating applications in the Microsoft® WindowsTM graphical software environment. User-system interface design guidelines are an important part of the software design process and complement other human factors activities that support good USI design. Differences between printed and on-line guidelines documents suggest developing on-line guidelines to support the development of WindowsTM-based GE Information Services applications. The content of the GE guidelines is tailored toward company applications, using examples of both good and bad user interface designs to illustrate guideline principles. The guidelines also include a sample application that incorporates the guidelines in its user interface. Components that contribute to the effectiveness of the guidelines, such as quality, time required to use, relevance, and complexity, are explored.