Discusses how to design effective user interfaces for computer-based training (CBT) programs. Four types of interfaces are described: presentation, including consistency; conversation, including feedback and flexibility; navigation; and explanation, including online help. A job aid for evaluating CBT interfaces is included. (Contains 13…

This synthesis of the research on direct manipulation interfaces explores the nature of directness in computer interfaces and demonstrates that the concept of directness is complex, including two gulfs--for execution and evaluation--and two kinds of mappings--semantic mappings and referential distance. Examination of the complexities of the…

This report consists of two papers on MENUNIX, an experimental interface to the approximately 300 programs and files available on the Berkeley UNIX 4.0 version of the UNIX operating system. The first paper discusses some of the psychological concerns involved in the design of MENUNIX; the second is a tutorial user manual for MENUNIX, in which the…

Intended for users of the 3RIP text retrieval database, for retrieval system users with a knowledge of the EURONET Common Command Language (CCL), and for 3RIP system managers, this booklet provides a complete description of the 3RIP retrieval system command language. New functions and recent changes in the 3RIP system are summarized, system…

Discusses the importance of skillful visual design of computer screens and provides guidelines for screen design in the areas of information resolution, interaction of design elements, color, and typography and icons. (MES)

Like a table of contents in print material, a computer-presented menu presents information. It informs a user of the topics that are available. Some menus present information by categories and thus communicate the organization as well as the content of the program. In addition to providing information, menus serve as a selection and retrieval…

Emphasis on interfacing -- the various processes for passing information into or out of computers -- is suggested. Why the Texas Instruments microcomputer is plausible for this is noted, followed by specific interfacing suggestions, including programs for a timer and the assembly language subroutine. (MNS)

Identifies human factor issues involved in the student-computer interface in computer assisted instruction and makes specific recommendations for screen design. Factors considered include simplicity, spaciousness, relevance, standardization, changing display screen contents, color coding, shape and size coding, and brightness coding. (Author/LRW)

This article illustrates how Lotus 1-2-3 software can be used to create graphs using downloaded online searches as raw material, notes most commands applied, and outlines three required steps: downloading, importing the downloading file into the worksheet, and making graphs. An example in bibliometrics and sample graphs are included. (EJS)

Addresses the problems of unsuitable physical layout of the visual display terminal, keyboard, and document holder and improperly selected office furniture by discussing a group of office products dubbed "computer furniture," i.e., terminal tables and furniture for peripherals. Purchasing advice is included. (EJS)

The decision support system (DSS) environment, the functional requirements of a DSS, and the architectural requirements of the computer systems and communications network necessary to support a DSS are discussed. Changes in the computing environment that are necessary to implement decision support systems are suggested. (Author/MLW)

Presents specifications for software that is designed to support manual development and maintenance of information retrieval thesauri. Evaluation of existing software and design of custom software is discussed, requirements for integration with larger systems and for the user interface are described, and relationships among terms are discussed.…

NETPAD is a microcomputer-based system, implemented on a Commodore PET 2001-8, by which a human indexer can input, retrieve, and edit information in order to produce a variety of permuted index displays. The basic unit of the NETPAD system is a subnetwork (a description of a single document) containing a set of concept nodes (author, title, date,…

Focusing on the use of microcomputers as "smart terminals" for accessing time-sharing systems for libraries, this document discusses the communications software needed to allow the microcomputer to appear as a terminal to the remote host. The functions which communications software programs are designed to perform are defined and…

This book contains 12 case histories, each based on a real-life problem, that show how a manager can use common sense, knowledge, and interpersonal skills to solve problems in human performance at work. Each case study describes a worker's problem and provides background information and an assignment; solutions are suggested. The following cases…