Austin Henderson

A multiple, virtual-workspace interface to support user task switching

An interface is presented that is designed to help users switch among tasks on which they are concurrently working. Nine desirable properties for such an interface are derived. It is argued that a key constraint to building interfaces that support task switching is that low user-overhead switching among tasks requires a large amount of display space, whereas actual display space is limited. A virtual workspace design is presented that greatly speeds the inevitable task-switching induced window faulting. The resulting interface is presented as a study in theory-based human-interface design. It is shown how in this case theory is important in inspiring a design, but design entailments outside the theory raise new issues that must be faced to make the design viable. These design experiences, in turn, help inspire new theory.

Reflections on participatory design: lessons from the trillium experience

In recent years system engineers, product designers, and human interface designers have become increasingly interested in developing ways of involving users in the design and evolution of computer-based systems. Some have turned for guidance and inspiration to an approach to systems design pioneered in Scandinavia and often referred to as Participatory Design. In this paper we examine the development of a computer-based design tool, Trillium, which on the surface looked like an example of Participatory Design in that users were directly involved in the development of the technology. Our analysis leads us to conclude, however, that Trilliums development departed in critical ways from our current model of Participatory Design and to suggest that the manner in which users are involved in the development effort plays an important role in the success of the endeavor.

Video and design

Four relations between video and design are identified. One, the role of video in support of the activity of design, is explored in some detail. It is asserted that more than one of these relations is present in the usual situation.

Object models in user interface design: a CHI 97 workshop

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Chair's column

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Chairs' Column

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HCI/SIGCHI issues for policy '98

This is an exciting time for HCI. It is appearing everywhere. More and more industries are realizing the user interfaces are the key point of product differentiation. Disasters in controlling complex systems indicate that HCI is not an easy matter. The general public is becoming aware of HCI as a serious concern not only in product choice but more seriously in effecting, and indeed defining, the workplace and the home. HCI on the cover and in a lead article of Business Week was a subject that everyone is now beginning to understand as important in the everyday world.

SIGCHI annual report, 1992–1993

This column discusses Austin Hendersons recent travels, INTERCHI 93, and a selection of topics covered at the Extended Executive Committee Meeting held in Boston in December. Austin Hendersons travels this fall and early winter have taken him around the world to Japan, Russia, and the Netherlands. Later he returned to Amsterdam for an INTERCHI 93 planning meeting. The following is his description of these trips.

Some closing thoughts about SIGCHI

This Special Interest Group was occasioned by the then-impending occurrence of the Policy98, ACMs first conference on engaging United States policy-making. Since Policy98 was to follow CHI 98 so closely, many who attended CHI 98 would not be able to attend Policy98. Therefore this SIG was intended to provide attendees at CHI 98 with the opportunity to consider issues that should be addressed at Policy98, to enable those who are attending, some of whom would take an active part in this SIG, to carry these issues to Policy98.

International perspectives: Chair's introduction

SIGCHI has had, as usual, a busy year. The membership has continued to grow slowly despite the economic climate, something we are very pleased with. At the close it has dropped slightly, something to be watched. The volunteer structure has been adequate to the programs we have undertaken; those involved are very enthusiastic. Debate on the future of the organization is continual, reflecting healthy involvement and concern. Our relations with other SIGs, the ACM volunteer structure, and the ACM professional staff has been very rewarding. In short, while not without difficulties and challenges, SIGCHI is a thriving organization.