Interface Design • Graphics • Language: Interpretations of Human User Interface

Abstract

Several interpretations of human user interface are reviewed and a proposal is developed for understanding the new category of tools in the form of computer programs. The advantages of a graphical user interface is compared to that of a character based interface. The contribution of the designer to the articulation of the retinal space in which these tools appear is outlined. The theoretical part is accompanied by a detailed case history of the design of an electronic mail application. The relationship between an interface science and an interface design is commented on but the proper domain of interface design is distinct from both science and art.