When a user interacts with a system or product, Interactive Design can be defined as the process of attaining the behaviour between the three. It is the response to a user, where the behaviour of a system or object is analysed. Successful Interactive Design efficiently conveys a system's interface and purpose. It balances a business' technical capacity and objective and considers real users such as their personal experiences, needs, wants and desires.
There are two Persona's in Interactive Design - Persona 1 and Persona 2.
Fictional Typical Users
Persona 1 -
Where they try to understand the User and how they interact with the product. Qualitative Research is employed to find patterns and common characteristics between users. For the scenario, interactions with the user and product is explored.
Persona 2 - (implementing on the product itself)
Once the personality type is agreed, the product is viewed objectively rather than subjectively. Some questions that can be asked to ensure the quality of the Interactive Design include:
1. If the interface were a person, what or who would s/he be like?
2. How would you describe the product to a friend in terms of personality?
3. How is it different to other products?
Typical Process in Interactive Design
1. Design Research - Qualitative Research is used to find out about the use and their environment in order to find the best possible design that would suit them. Persona's could be used here as well.
2. Research Analysis and Concept Generation - Concepts are generated for new products, software's, etc.
3. Alternative Design and Evaluation - The moment the problem is clear, designers generate solutions using prototypes to aid in articulating the concept.
4. Prototyping and Usability Concept - Methods are used to test the prototypes. Roles include: testing the role of the design, the look and feel and the implementation.
5. Implementation - The implementation of the design is constantly tested by Interactive Designers to ensure its effectiveness.
6. System Testing - The moment the system is developed, it goes through further testing for usability and errors.
Example
A good example is the Official Website for advertising company, Clemenger BBDO. Here, navigation is clear and simple. On the first page, it is divided into the four major companies in Australia. From there, an elevator animation welcomes you to an image of a receptionist with the list of the main topics across the top. Clicking on any of these will bring you to a whole new screen which is just as clear and easy to navigate across. It is obvious that the website is based a lot on the user experience (particularly those who have a history with advertising companies) as the whole site appears like the actual business building. The "cartoony" design helps to create a relaxed and fun atmosphere for those clients who maybe pulling their hairs out trying to find the perfect solution for their products.
Playskool's children's toys are another good example of Interactive Design. Being made for children, a vast amount of research would have needed to be made. Not only around babies and their common activities, but also concerns that parents would have. Below the image displays an MP3 play with very rounded edges for the safety of the baby. The covering is also sturdy and thick whenever the baby may drop it. Buttons are large for easy usability and the colours are bright and happy.
1 comment:
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