5E: prompts + messages

Question 1

prompts + messages

Answer 1

to communicate message effectively + efficiently; must be understandable from POV of user
- users want to be in charge: no threatening/condescending language, don’t humanize computer
- keep messages straightforward

Question 2

prompts

Answer 2

prompt: reminder/cue as to what is required
- main method of communication w/ users

Question 3

features of effective prompts

Answer 3

• should be concise + accurately communicate message
• should not teach users details of program

Question 4

prompt guidelines

Answer 4

• use verbs if screen element activates process/action
• if prompt used for user input, use nouns which describe data
• ellipsis after prompts to open new windows

Question 5

error messages

Answer 5

messages: provides further information + informs user if a problem occurs
- should clearly communicate nature of error + provide solution

Question 6

features of unambiguous + non-threatening error messages

Answer 6

• blame must not be assigned to user
• if error cannot be resolved, tell the user that
• icons used to show severity of error

Question 7

feedback

Answer 7

should be instantaneous
- required after user initiates any action, so users don’t wonder whether their actions were successful

Question 8

when should feedback be provided

Answer 8

intuitively, as processing results in some obvious change to interface/data

Question 9

when to give additional feedback

Answer 9

background processes: takes some time to complete, additional feedback should be given so users tolerate waiting

Question 10

feedback depending on nature of processing

Answer 10

depending on nature of processing, feedback can be different; subtle background processes should not have feedback that disrupts user
- requires waiting = more obvious feedback