Bo-eun Park

User customization methods based on mental models: modular UI optimized for customizing in handheld device

The ongoing conflict designers face between the Universal User Interface, focusing on general predispositions, and the Customized User Interface, adjusted to individualistic characteristics, is more prevalent than ever. One reason for this enduring conflict is that mobile devices require that user interfaces (UI) be optimized for each individual user across a global marketplace. This issue inspired us to build a conceptual model of a UI, which supports the maximization of customization and optimization by reflecting personal characteristics. This Modular (each application is defined as its own modular and can be assembled and disassembled) UI was based on four premises: what is reflected, how it was grouped, how it was provided, its affect. Usability testing of the UI was performed in three countries with 8 user groups from each country. Web surveys and FGI (Focus Group Interview) for with 8 user groups from the three countries showed that this type of modular UI can effectively optimize interactions for largely diverse groups of users. This research on customization for user experience is significant because it can generate its users with an optimum interface that aligns with their unique set of biological and cultural characteristics. This study also shows a need for additional research analyzing cultural elements of optimized UI in order to deepen our level of understanding of the influence of cultural factors on the usability of handheld device UIs.

Approaches to create a universal user experience in handheld electronic product

A study with the purpose of providing user experience that is consistent with various devices was conducted at a global electronics company that manufactures a variety of digital electronic products. Products selected as study subjects were handheld devices that can receive DMB (Digital Media Broadcasting), play multimedia files, and create files such as photos. The study was conducted by a task force team with User Interface practitioners of managing divisions of each product. In this study, methods and processes that were attempted in order to establish consistency principles of user experiences, enhancing the various characteristics of each product, are described. The results and practical experiences obtained through the processes are introduced.

Designing input method of hand-held device with international user studies

In a small hand-held device, a common method of interaction design is expressed by metaphors. Additionally, the labeling can help to understand the meaning of metaphors. Two elements are important to express information and functions appropriately within the physically limited range of the device. For global products, the metaphors should be recognized and transmitted by a large number of users in this labeling. This study conducted a user preference test in the USA, the United Kingdom and China to find the optimal form for the arrangement of such input method design and labeling. As a result of the test, the study could figure out the effective labeling metaphor that would express the arrangement of appropriate input-buttons and their functions in the hand-held device. In addition, the metaphor would be applied to actual product.