INF1520 Assignment 2 Semester 1

INF1520: Assignment 2 Semester 1 Question 1 1.1 The QWERTY layout is based on the keyboard design of the original typewriter. The typewriter prototypes had an issue with the bars colliding with one another and jamming. It is said that the creator of the typewriter arranged the keys with the most commonly used keys in hard to reach spaces, to try and slow typists down and try to avoid the problem of jamming. 1.2 Putting aesthetics over design is a common design mistake that could negatively affect the way in which a person interacts with a system. An interface that is not cluttered and has its elements placed logically can be more aesthetically pleasing than an interface that is cluttered and has its elements randomly placed. Knowing and understanding your target market is essential in building an interface that is tailored to their likes and will maximise their use of it. For example, an interface that is colourful and has many moving elements and sounds would be most effective when used by children and would grab their attention whereas for adults it would be a sensory overload making it ineffective. Question 2 • Predictability • Synthesisability • Familiarity • Generalisability • Consistency