Introduction to Human Computer Interface

 

        HCI (human-computer interface) is the study of how people interact with computers and to what extent computers are or are not developed for successful interaction with human beings. As its name implies, HCI consists of three parts: the user, the computer itself, and the ways they work together. User, we may mean an individual user or a group of users working together. An appreciation of the way people's sensory systems (sight, hearing, touch) relay information is vital. Also, different users form different conceptions or mental models about their interactions and have different ways of learning and keeping knowledge and. In addition, cultural and national differences play a part. Second, Computer, when we talk about the computer, we're referring to any technology ranging from desktop computers, to large scale computer systems. For example, if we were discussing the design of a Website, then the Website itself would be referred to as "the computer". Devices such as mobile phones or VCRs can also be considered to be “computers”. Lastly, Interaction, there are obvious differences between humans and machines. In spite of these, HCI attempts to ensure that they both get on with each other and interact successfully. In order to achieve a usable system, you need to apply what you know about humans and computers, and consult with likely users throughout the design process. In real systems, the schedule and the budget are important, and it is vital to find a balance between what would be ideal for the users and what is feasible in reality.

        

        The goals of HCI are to produce usable and safe systems, as well as functional systems. In order to produce computer systems with good usability, developers must attempt to understand the factors that determine how people use technology. Next, they also need to develop tools and techniques to enable building suitable systems. Then, they also need to achieve efficient, effective, and safe interaction. Lastly, they need to put people first as their priority. Underlying the whole theme of HCI is the belief that people using a computer system should come first. Their needs, capabilities and preferences for conducting various tasks should direct developers in the way that they design systems. People should not have to change the way that they use a system in order to fit in with it. Instead, the system should be designed to match their requirements.

        Usability is one of the important things in HCI, it is making sure that the system is easy and friendly to be used. An usable system is easy to learn by user. Next, easy to remember how to use. Then, it is also effective and efficient to be used. Lastly, it is safe and enjoyable to be used by the user. The usability is important because many everyday systems and products seem to be designed with little regard to usability. This will leads to frustration, wasted time and errors that will make the user fed up to use the system and will leave the product. 

        The field of HCI covers a wide range of topics, and its development has relied on contributions from many disciplines. Some of the main disciplines which have contributed to HCI in Computer Science is Technology, software design, development & maintenance, prototyping tools and also graphics. In Cognitive Psychology also in information processing, capabilities, and also performance prediction. In Social Psychology have contribute in Social & Organizational structures. While in Artificial Intelligence also contribute in intelligent software. Lastly, in Engineering Design they contribute in graphic design & engineering principle.