CS 8316 (Fall, 2022): Homework #1
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Part 1. Discussion/short answer questions:
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1a.
What is usability?
Is it uniquely determined by the "internal" characteristics of
a product or system, such as its (interface) design and implementation?
If so, which specific internal characteristics?
If not, what other factors also affects usability?
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1b.
True or false?
Universal usability = usability is the same for all users
(across all user "universe").
Briefly justify yourself.
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1c.
Can usability be quantified using a single metric?
If so, define your single metric.
If not, what are the quantitative and non-quantitative usability metrics?
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1d.
Consulting the
modified/enhanced
UID process we discussed in class,
outline the UI evaluation activities that can be performed
before system implementation,
and discuss the importance of these activities in refining/improving
UI designs and design prototypes.
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Part 2. UI design/evaluation
Select a software, an application,
a Web site, an online service, a smart device, a game,
or anything with computer/software embedded in it,
that you may interact with as a user,
and perform the following:
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2a.
Classify the interaction style(s) of its user interface.
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2b.
Analyze its usability by consulting the 8 golden rules of interface design.
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2c.
How would you measure its usability? Give some examples.
(Make up some numbers, if it helps).
Due Date:
10/26/22.
Prepared by Jeff Tian
(tian@smu.edu).
Posted: Oct. 13, 2022.
Last update: Oct. 13, 2022.