IT302-Unit8-

Part1: Introduction. The approach I used in unit 5 was a generic design which is flexible in nature with a basic layout planned so it can be easily molded, or modified to fulfill a variety of needs or applications. The wireframe associated with the design is shown without a supporting structure. The associated structure will be dictated by its application and placement. Part 2: Non-Speech Sounds. Non-speech sounds are a part of our life that we have been exposed to from our youngest days until the present. Over time we learned to understand what they represented and understand more as we were exposed to them. Many key us to an action or event that occurred or is occurring around us even if we can’t or don’t see what sound is in response to. Our ability to interpret non-speech sounds and its connection to vision is a trait that can be effectively used in designing a kiosk. Sound can be employed as a vehicle to attract us to a kiosk, or draw attention to a product or service. While the sound may not directly provide information, it can used to create an interest in a product or service and draw us to it. A certain amount of care is needed in the selection of the sound that is being used to attract customers. Its purpose is to create interest and to support it, but not to take control of the presentation of the product. The same formula can be applied when we are using a kiosk. As well as sounds that may be used to enhance the presentation of a product, they can also be used for support. They can be used to let us know that we have selected the correct keystroke to accomplish an action, or that our choice was incorrect and we need to correct the previous procedure to complete the task or action that we have selected. An important use of sound is to confirm the correct or incorrect entry of a keystroke for the action that is desired and help reduce the load on a user’s visual system. If the entry selected is correct a pleasant and upbeat tones may be used with any text that is displayed to reinforce a correct action or response. If incorrect the sound should invoke a negative feeling with the text. While the sound is not absolutely needed, it is helpful in verifying a selection, particularly if the client is not paying attention. Specific keystrokes or actions will have a sound associated with them to verify that they have been selected. A reinforcing sound may be desirable with keys such as yes or ok, no and other similar keystrokes that verify an action. This action may help to verify that the correct keystroke was chosen and the desired action will occur. The same would apply to the erroneous selection of a key. Rather than an action taking place a sound indicating a incorrect choice will be sounded. Part 3: Speech Sounds.

There are diverse reasons that speech sounds may be desirable to include in the design. Clarity and verification of the selection may well be the most obvious. Terms that may be desirable to include speech with would be yes, no, OK, correct, incorrect, select, open, close, help, delete and a similar words based on the type of display that is being presented. These are terms that would be used to verify the operators’ selection so that the correct action is being taken. It may also be desirable to have a brief introduction or welcome to the kiosk when a potential consumer nears or initiates an action on it. Although speech may not be desirable on a consistent basis, it may be of use when an item is on sale or to promote a special event. With using speech, care must be taken if there are a number of kiosks in a reasonably confined area. Provisions must be taken to prevent the message on one kiosk from interfering with nearby kiosk whether there is speech associated with it or not. There is no benefit promoting a special item on a kiosk when there is a promoting another nearby. The use of speech, while useful, must be done so with care. Part4: Sound and Redundancy. While redundancy is generally an uncertain procedure, under the proper conditions it can be used effectively with positive results. The same is true for sound, while normally its use may be limited; there are times where the exploiting of sound can be constructive. When combined for the proper reason and done correctly it can produce a positive outcome. In a situation where a number of kiosks are the central attraction of an array that is designed to provide access to a uniform activity or display, sound and redundancy can be used for a positive effect. If a new product is being introduced this could be an effective means to accomplish that task. By using a number of kiosks, reinforcing the information being provided with the use sound and perhaps color to maintain the potential clients or customer’s attention an effective marketing strategy could be developed. Sound or redundancy can be used successfully to reinforce a desired marketing plan, and when combined and presented properly can create a successful marketing or sales achievement.

References: Heim, Steven G. "Chapter 12, 12 Using Text in Interaction Design." The Resonant Interface: HCI Foundations for Interaction Design. Boston: Pearson/Addison Wesley, 2008.