From Computing and Software Wiki

Contents 1 Overview 2 Universal Design 3 Accessibility 4 Designing for context 4.1 References

Overview

The issue of computer interfaces has been thrust into light within the past few years mainly due to the graphics and processing capabilities that come along with practically all commercially available systems. Designers are expected to provide a transparent interface to the core of their software that can facilitate work for all levels of users. When designing a user interface many aspects of human diversity must be taken into account. Depending on the purpose of the software, designer must take into account factors such as but not limited to:

• Age
• Race
• Physical Attributes/Disabilities
• Mental Disabilities
• Educational Background
• Computer Expertise
• Geographical Location
• Cultural Background

Universal Design

8 Golden Rules Concerns, avoid cultural symbols, use universally understood metaphors. Ex: Don't use stop light. They aren't the same everywhere.

Accessibility

Concerns

Age: Font size , Macular Degeneration

Physical Disabilities: Color Blindness Optical Seizures

Education: Mental Model of the user, What we can assume the user will understand - Time to learn

Language: Terminology, Certain words may have different meaning

Designing for context

Cultural

• Keep in mind the equipment they have been using
• Symbols
• Terminology
• Traditions
• Colors
• Imagery
• Training Techniques - consider the mental strategies which will be adopted by operators and the resources required in terms of background knowledge.

Linguistic

References

Center for Universal Desing