Definition §

User Interfaces

Graphical User Interface (GUI) §

GUI (graphical user interface) is a system of interface visual components for computer software. A GUI displays objects that convey information and represent actions that can be taken by the user.

e.g. Windows / Mac / Desktop Apps

User Interface (UI) §

A User Interface that is not graphical,

e.g. Text-based like terminal.

Qualities of a Successful UI §

• Clear §

  If people can’t work out how to use they won’t use it!

• Concise §

  Thigns shouldn’t have lengthy explanations. It should be to the point.

• Familiar §

  By keeping things familar, people will instantly be able to utilise the interface without learning anything new.

• Responsive §

  This ensures things operate quickly, without lagging and causing frustration. It also relates to providing feedback to the user when they have done something (e.g. a loading bar when you open a program)

• Consistent §

  Keeping things predictable, so people know how things work or what to expect (e.g. using same colours, fonts, screen positions etc.)

• Attractive §

  The UI should be visually pleasing so people are more inclined to want to use it (e.g. Windows vs Command Prompt)

• Efficiency §

  People should be able to achieve their goals in a smooth and streamlined manner.

• Forgiving §

  If Users make an error it is easy to recover from and continue on with what they were doing.