3.5 Conclusion

Me-centric computing will only work if we have a positive experience in working with machines. To achieve a positive human-machine interface, it is necessary to specify the roles clearly. In me-centric computing we are talking about reassigning tasks to machines that initially belonged to humans . To make this possible, these machines have to be far more user-friendly than they are now, if they are to be an intrinsic part of human culture. This is fundamentally a problem of design and interpretation. Two systems that are capable of performing the same tasks often require totally different training because of this. A Windows user is not able to use UNIX without some extra lessons, although the basic tasks are the same.

The new breed of computers needs to simulate human cognition through a series of algorithms that interpret "natural" human communication as well as respond in a likewise "human" fashion that is understandable to the user. Only then will me-centric computing be interesting to the majority of people, because they can use these intelligent appliances without any technical training, with only process knowledge.

The work of defining patterns for human-computer interaction is far from complete. A first step has been taken whereby an initial set of patterns has been defined and validated to the extent that the patterns identified seem to be consistent with subject perceptions of valid patterns. But lots of effort still needs to be put into research to create human-computer interfaces that are really technology-independent and require only the process knowledge.

Resolving the open issues in HCI will enable universal access to resources on the Internet, i.e., information, communication, and transactions. It will allow more variety in technology, as it will support a broad range of appliances and services. It will grow the user base, allowing for more diversity by accommodating users with different circumstances. And it will help to bridge the gap between what users know and what they need to know. Closely related to HCI is the field of good design, which we will talk about in the next section.



Radical Simplicity. Transforming Computers Into Me-centric Appliances
Radical Simplicity: Transforming Computers Into Me-centric Appliances (Hewlett-Packard Press Strategic Books)
ISBN: 0131002910
EAN: 2147483647
Year: 2002
Pages: 88

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