Interface evolution (1)

Mayhew (1992)

Command Line Interfaces

Origins in mainframe systems, teletypewriters
+ Powerful
+ Flexible, user augmentation (UNIX)
+ Fast, efficient,
+ Minimal screen space

- Difficult to learn
- Difficult to remember
- Assumes typing skill
- Error Prone
- Enhancements invisible

From-fill screens

Two dimensional interaction
Field oriented; user can modify input before committing

+ Self explanatory
+ Requires little memory
+ Efficient use of screen space
+ Parameterised
+ Provides context
+ Visible enhancements

- Assumes knowledge of valid inputs
- Assumes typing skill
- Error prone
- Assumes knowledge of special keys for navigation
- Inflexible