Important
interaction metaphors
Metaphors constitute
the user's initial mental model of the system's structure and operation.
They should relate to users' past experiences and should be
consistent.
- (Typewriter metaphor):
Evoked easily due to physical similarities. Should be
avoided
- Desktop metaphor:
Currently the predominant metaphor.
- Book metaphor: For
hypertext, hypertext-like online documentation.
- Filing
cabinets: For online documentation, system
settings.
- Office
metaphor: For collections of documents
- Library metaphor:
For large collections of documents
- Building
metaphors,
city metaphors, etc.: for
virtual worlds
- Composite metaphors
Combine
2 or more metaphors (like office, file cabinet and desktop)
The learning and retention
of a system's functionality is considerably facilitated by meaningful and consistent
metaphors.
