Track: Application Development
Rapid Prototyping: A Customization Strategy
Scott CattranWilliam A Mackaness
The functionality of GIS now extends to the design and adaptation of the interface such that systems can be tailored according to an organization's style, tasks, computer literacy, and frequency of use. This paper proposes that a logical approach for interface customization is through a recursive consultation process that enables interface designs to be rapidly prototyped. This approach has been used to increase system usability and user performance levels at the Highland Council Planning Service, Scotland. The paper details the three "how to" phases of design: how to reveal user characteristics and their task environment, how to perform effective user-testing via rapid prototyping, and how to evaluate prototype usability. It is suggested that this strategy can be used to help tap the maximum potential of a GIS within any organization.
Scott Cattran
Geo-graphics Inc.
31 Central Street
Bangor, ME 04401 - 5115
USA
Telephone: (207) 947-8446
Fax: (207) 947-2848
E-mail: scattran@Geo-graphicsME.com