Successful User-Software Interface Design

Abstract

Generalized telemetry data analysis systems have been developed to meet the future requirements for the analysis of telemetry data. By providing the user the freedom of stipulating the manner in which data is to be analyzed, the need for mission specific analysis software can be greatly reduced or eliminated entirely. Communications between the user and the software is accomplished by means of a user-software interface. Proper design of the interface will promote successful user-software communications. Interface design features such as menus and online documentation are discussed. Human engineering is an integral part of a successful user-software interface design. The human beings which operate the software possess limitations on their mental abilities and perception. Human engineering concepts which utilize display techniques and reference names are discussed. A definition of a successful user-software interface is given.