Graphics, text and language in a word processor interface

The word processor has become an integral tool for
the many people who rely on computers on a daily
basis. As such it has a wide and varied user base and
must cater for a very diverse user group. Due to the
heavy reliance on the word processor it is essential
that it delivers pleasurable and efficient
interaction to its users. This book focuses on
furthering the improvement of the word processor
usability. Specifically, it concentrates on the
impact of graphics, text and language on the
usability of a word processor. Through comparative
user testing, using the medium of a scaled-down word
processor application which can accommodate
interchangeable interfaces and easy administration of
preset tasks, these facets are tested and a number of
recommendations concerning the usability of a word
processor are proposed based on both statistical
analysis and observation of user interaction. The
informative text should be useful to Human-Computer
Interaction specialists or anyone interested in the
impact of language and icons on the use of software
applications.

Autorentext

Tanya René Beelders, MSc.: BSc(IT), BSc Hons and MSc., obtainedat the University of the Free State (UFS), South Africa.Currently a lecturer in the Department of Computer Science andInformatics at UFS. Specialises in HCI research. Maintains activeinvolvement in IT field by providing IT consultation anddevelopment services to industry.

Klappentext

The word processor has become an integral tool forthe many people who rely on computers on a dailybasis. As such it has a wide and varied user base andmust cater for a very diverse user group. Due to theheavy reliance on the word processor it is essentialthat it delivers pleasurable and efficientinteraction to its users. This book focuses onfurthering the improvement of the word processorusability. Specifically, it concentrates on theimpact of graphics, text and language on theusability of a word processor. Through comparativeuser testing, using the medium of a scaled-down wordprocessor application which can accommodateinterchangeable interfaces and easy administration ofpreset tasks, these facets are tested and a number ofrecommendations concerning the usability of a wordprocessor are proposed based on both statisticalanalysis and observation of user interaction. Theinformative text should be useful to Human-ComputerInteraction specialists or anyone interested in theimpact of language and icons on the use of softwareapplications.