Interface Design In Software Solutions

The first major factor that needs to be considered when developing user interfaces is:

Identification of Data Required

 Data can range from sound, graphics, animations, text and video.
 Once data has been identified it must be then matched with an appropriate
screen element.

SCREEN ELEMENTS
1. Menus
 Initiate the execution of modules.
 Correspond to calls to sub-programs.
2. Command Buttons
 Used to select different paths in a programs execution.
 Assigned to help in the execution of modules.
3. Toolbars
 Used to quickly access commonly used elements.
 A process is executed when an icon is selected.
4. Text Boxes
 Used to receive input from strings.
 Validation usually occurs within the program code.
(Unexpected input may occur)
5. List Boxes
 Force the users to select from given options.
 They are self validating so it is not possible to input unexpected elements.
6. Combination Boxes (Combo)
 They combine the functions of a text box with that of a list.
 Combo boxes are able to allow text to be inputted or force the users to
select one of the options in the list.
7. Check Boxes
 Used to obtain a Boolean input from a user.
 Clicking on a check box allows a value to change from false to true or true
to false.
8. Radio Buttons
 Force the user to select one of the displayed options. e.g. Multiple Choice
Answer.
 Interface Design In Software Solutions

9. Scroll Bars
 Scroll bars display the position of a numeric data value within a given
range.
 They are often use to navigate within other screen elements.
10. Labels
 Used to provide information and guidance to the suer.
 Labels are output screen elements, users cannot input data into labels.

ACTIVITIES

1. For each of the pictures below identify the appropriate screen element.

2. Identify the most appropriate screen design element for each of the
following situations.
 Entering your address.
 Selecting favourite colour.
 Allow quick selection of multiple modules.
 Interface Design In Software Solutions

 Instruction text.
 Compiling a list of favourite foods.