Prototyping user interfaces

The development of the user interface to a complex computer system depends on a clear understanding of what that system will be used for and of the people who will use it. The construction and evaluation of a series of prototype systems is a necessary part of acquiring and applying that understanding. Prototyping and evaluation is an integral part of the user interface development process. The authors use prototypes of varying sophistication to address problems of requirements, of structure and dialogue and of fine detail and use the results to guide their analysis and specification efforts. They have found that this process demands an active management approach with a continuous re-assessment of priorities and consequent allocation of resources.<>