Software Engineering basics - Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)

Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) is the study and practice of designing software and systems that enable effective, efficient, and user-friendly interaction between humans and computers. It focuses on how people use technology and how to make that interaction intuitive, accessible, and enjoyable.

Key Goals of HCI:

  1. Usability – Software should be easy to learn, use, and remember.

  2. Efficiency – Users should achieve their goals quickly with minimal effort.

  3. Effectiveness – The system should support users in completing tasks accurately.

  4. User Satisfaction – Interfaces should be pleasant, engaging, and reduce frustration.

  5. Accessibility – Design should accommodate all users, including those with disabilities.

Principles of Good HCI Design:

  • Consistency – Similar actions look and behave the same.

  • Feedback – The system informs users about what’s happening (e.g., loading indicators).

  • Affordance – Design elements suggest how they are used (e.g., buttons look clickable).

  • Simplicity – Avoid unnecessary complexity; focus on core tasks.

  • Error Prevention & Recovery – Minimize mistakes and allow easy correction (e.g., undo option).

HCI in Practice:

  • Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) – Windows, icons, menus, and buttons.

  • Mobile Interfaces – Touch gestures, responsive layouts, voice input.

  • Emerging Interfaces – Virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), wearable devices, and AI-driven assistants.

Example:

  • Good HCI: A mobile banking app that is easy to navigate, uses clear icons, provides instant feedback on transactions, and allows users to recover from mistakes (like canceling a transfer).

  • Poor HCI: A cluttered app with confusing navigation, inconsistent buttons, and no feedback when an action is performed.