Common Sense and User Interfaces: Issues Beyond the Keyboard

Every interactive computer system involves a user interface. Microcomputer software shows many innovations in user interfaces. Microcomputer software also reveals some of the difficulties and ongoing weaknesses of user interface design. The author discusses ease of learning versus speed and flexibility of use, and the difficulties of reconciling the two; arrogant programs and accommodating programs; and such issues as copy protection. Library automators can learn much by observing successes and failures in microcomputer software. Those who use personal computers should be aware of user interface issues; in some cases, knowing why something is annoying can help reduce frustration with it.