Rift Valley University

Extensions degree program

6 KILLO CAMPUS
th
DEPARTMENT- computer science 5 year 2nd
semester
ASSIGNMENT :- Human-Computer Interaction
Submitted by:
Name: ID No.
1. ZelalemTessema………………………….0029/19
2. MelakuAbebe……………………………..0042/19
3. Zahra Fereja……………………..…………0001/19
4. LiyuworkGetachew………………………..0011/19
5. WorkinehTerefe………………………...….0032/19
6. GelaneshSeid……….………………………0115/19

Advisor Mr.Girma
2024 G C
 Rift Valley University
Department of Computer Science

Human-Computer Interaction
1. How does the user interface and interaction design impact the user? Give
specific examples
➢ The user interface and interaction design play a crucial role in shaping the overall
user experience. A well-designed interface can make navigating through a system
or application seamless, intuitive, and enjoyable for the user. On the other hand,
a poorly designed interface can lead to frustration, confusion, and ultimately
drive users away.

Specific examples of how the user interface and interaction design impact the user
include:

• Clarity in navigation: A well-designed interface provides clear navigation

elements such as menus, buttons, and links that help users easily move through a
system or application. For example, a website with a user-friendly menu bar at
the top of the page makes it easy for users to find what they are looking for
without getting lost.
• . Consistency in design: Consistency in design elements such as colors, fonts, and
layouts creates a sense of familiarity and helps users navigate more efficiently.
For instance, an application that uses the same color scheme and button styles
throughout maintains a cohesive look and feel that is easy for users to
understand.
• . Feedback on interactions: Providing immediate feedback to users when they
perform an action, such as clicking a button or submitting a form, helps users
understand their actions and confirms that the system is responding. For
example, when a user fills out a form and successfully submits it, a confirmation
message should appear to let them know their submission was successful.
 • . Accessibility considerations: Designing interfaces with accessibility in mind, such
as incorporating features like text-to-speech for visually impaired users, ensures
that all users can easily interact with a system. For instance, a website with alt
text for images allows screen readers to accurately describe images to visually
impaired users.

Overall, a well-designed user interface and interaction design can significantly impact
how users interact with a system or application, leading to a positive user experience
and increased user satisfaction.

2. Explain the economic benefits of a product that is easy to use in the context of a
Web-based shoe shop.
➢ In the context of a Web-based shoe shop, a product that is easy to use can
provide several economic benefits to the business.

Firstly, a user-friendly interface can attract more customers to the website and increase
conversion rates. Customers are more likely to make a purchase if they find the website
easy to navigate and can quickly find what they are looking for. This can ultimately lead
to an increase in sales and revenue for the shoe shop.

Secondly, a product that is easy to use can help reduce the number of customer service
inquiries and returns. If customers can easily find information about the products, such
as sizing and materials, they are less likely to have questions or concerns that would
require contacting customer service. Additionally, if customers can easily see detailed
product images and descriptions, they are more likely to make informed purchasing
decisions and be satisfied with their purchase, reducing the likelihood of returns.

Overall, a product that is easy to use in a Web-based shoe shop can improve the overall
customer experience, increase sales, and reduce costs associated with customer service
inquiries and returns, leading to economic benefits for the business.

3. What advantages can you expect if you improve the usability of an App or web
page?
 ➢ . Increased user satisfaction: By improving usability, you can make it easier for
users to navigate and interact with your app or webpage, leading to a more
positive user experience.
• . Higher conversion rates: A more user-friendly design can lead to higher
conversion rates, as users are more likely to complete desired actions such as
making a purchase or signing up for a service.
• . Improved retention rates: Users are more likely to return to an app or webpage
that is easy to use and navigate, leading to higher retention rates over time.
• . Reduced support costs: By making your app or webpage more intuitive and
user-friendly, you can reduce the need for customer support and
troubleshooting, ultimately saving on support costs.
• . Competitive advantage: A well-designed and user-friendly app or webpage can
set you apart from competitors, attracting and retaining more users.
• . Enhanced brand reputation: A positive user experience can lead to a better
brand reputation, as users are more likely to recommend your app or webpage to
others.

4. Name some trends that make Human-Computer interaction more important

➢ . The increasing presence of smart devices and Internet of Things (IoT) technology
in everyday life, creating a need for seamless interaction between humans and
devices.
• . The rise of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms, leading to
more sophisticated and personalized user experiences that require effective
human-computer interaction.
• . The growing importance of virtual and augmented reality technologies, which
rely heavily on human-computer interaction for immersive experiences.
• . The expansion of e-commerce and online services, leading to a greater reliance
on user-friendly interfaces and intuitive design for successful transactions and
customer engagement.
• . The increasing prevalence of remote work and digital communication tools,
necessitating effective human-computer interaction for collaboration and
productivity.

5. Discuss the advantages anddisadvantages of the HCI design

 ➢ Advantages of HCI designs:
• Improved user experience: HCI designs aim to create interfaces that are user-
friendly and intuitive, leading to a better overall experience for the user.
• . Increased productivity: Well-designed HCI interfaces can streamline processes
and make tasks more efficient, leading to increased productivity for users.
• . Accessibility: HCI designs can be tailored to accommodate users with disabilities,
making technology more accessible to a wider range of people.
• . Personalization: HCI designs can be customized to suit the preferences and
needs of individual users, creating a more personalized and engaging experience.

6. Discuss the level of Maslow’s hierarchy of human needs.

➢ Maslow's hierarchy of human needs is often represented as a pyramid with five
levels, starting with basic physiological needs at the base and moving up to
higher-level needs such as self-actualization at the top.

At the base of the pyramid are the physiological needs, which include basic
requirements for survival such as food, water, air, shelter, and sleep. These needs must
be met before individuals can move on to higher-level needs.

The second level of the hierarchy is safety needs, which include the need for security,
stability, and protection from harm. This includes physical safety as well as financial
security and overall stability in one's environment.

The third level is the need for belonging and social relationships. This includes the need
for love, friendship, and a sense of belonging to a social group or community. Humans
are social beings and require connection with others to thrive.

The fourth level of the hierarchy is esteem needs, which include both self-esteem and
the esteem of others. This includes feelings of accomplishment, recognition, and respect
from others.

The final level of the hierarchy is self-actualization, which is the realization of one's full
potential and the desire for personal growth and development. This involves pursuing
personal goals and fulfilling one's unique talents and abilities.
Overall, Maslow's hierarchy of needs suggests that individuals must first meet their
basic physiological and safety needs before they can move on to higher-level needs such
as social relationships, self-esteem, and self-actualization. This framework provides a
valuable tool for understanding human motivation and behavior.

7. Gillian Crampton Smith proposes 4 dimensions of interactiondesign. What are

they? Provide examples of user interfaces components
➢ The 4 dimensions of interaction design proposed by Gillian Crampton Smith are:

• Behavioral - This dimension focuses on how users interact with a system in terms
of their actions and responses. Examples of user interface components that fall
under this dimension include buttons, sliders, menus, and checkboxes. These
components allow users to perform specific actions such as selecting options,
navigating through menus, or adjusting settings.

• . Functional - This dimension considers the overall functionality and purpose

of a system, ensuring that it meets the needs and goals of users. Examples of user
interface components that fall under this dimension include search bars, filters,
sorting options, and navigation bars. These components help users quickly and
easily find information, organize content, and navigate through the system.

• . Aesthetic - This dimension focuses on the visual appearance and design of

a system, including aspects such as typography, color schemes, graphics, and
layout. Examples of user interface components that fall under this dimension
include icons, images, typography, and animation effects. These components
help create a visually appealing and engaging user experience.
 • Reflective - This dimension considers the emotional and psychological
impact of a system on users, including aspects such as branding, storytelling, and
user engagement. Examples of user interface components that fall under this
dimension include onboarding screens, welcome messages, personalized
recommendations, and feedback mechanisms. These components help create a
memorable and meaningful user experience that resonates with users.
• . Reduced errors: HCI designs that are clear and easy to navigate can help
minimize user errors and improve the overall quality of interactions with
technology.

Disadvantages of HCI designs:

1. Complexity: HCI designs can sometimes be overly complex, leading to confusion and
frustration for users.

2. Inconsistency: Inconsistencies in design across different interfaces can make it

difficult for users to navigate and use different technologies.

3. Limited customization: Some HCI designs may not offer enough flexibility for users to
customize their interface to their liking.

4. Cost: Developing and implementing HCI designs can be expensive, especially for
smaller organizations or projects with limited budgets.

5. Compatibility issues: HCI designs may not always be compatible with different devices
or operating systems, leading to compatibility issues for users.

8. Explain the term user experience and name the major factors influencing it.
➢ User experience (UX) refers to the overall experience a person has when
interacting with a product or service, such as a website, application, or physical
product. It encompasses all aspects of the user's interaction with the company,
its services, and its products.

There are several major factors that influence user experience:

1. Usability: This refers to how easy and intuitive it is for users to navigate and interact
with the product. A product with good usability will be easy for users to understand and
use without much effort.

2. Accessibility: Accessibility refers to how easily people with disabilities can use and
access a product. Designing for accessibility is important to ensure that all users can
have a positive experience.

3. Visual design: Visual design plays a crucial role in user experience, as it encompasses
the overall look and feel of the product. Aesthetically pleasing design can enhance the
user experience and make the product more appealing.

4. Content: The quality and relevance of the content on a product can greatly impact the
user experience. Clear, concise, and informative content is essential for users to
understand the product and its features.

5. Performance: Performance refers to how quickly a product responds to user actions.

A fast and responsive product will provide a better user experience than one that is slow
or buggy.

6. Consistency: Consistency in design and functionality is important for providing a

positive user experience. Users should be able to predict how the product will behave
and navigate it easily.

7. Feedback: Providing feedback to users when they interact with a product is crucial for
a good user experience. Feedback can help users understand the result of their actions
and guide them in using the product effectively.

Overall, a positive user experience is essential for creating products and services that
users will enjoy using and continue to use in the long term. By considering and
optimizing these factors, companies can create products that are both user-friendly and
engaging.

9. Why is user experience relevant from an economic perspective?

➢ User experience is relevant from an economic perspective because it directly
impacts a company's bottom line. A positive user experience can lead to
 increased customer satisfaction, loyalty, and trust, which in turn can result in
higher sales and revenue. On the other hand, a poor user experience can lead to
customer dissatisfaction, negative reviews, and decreased sales. Investing in
improving user experience can result in a higher return on investment and give a
company a competitive edge in the market. Ultimately, a good user experience
can drive profitability and long-term success for a business.

10. Provide examples of a good design and a bad designthat can be explained
with the concept of affordance.
➢ A good design example that demonstrates affordance is a door handle. A door
handle typically has a shape or design that clearly indicates how it should be used
– it can be pushed down or pulled up to open the door. This design feature
provides users with a clear indication of how to interact with the door handle,
making it intuitive and user-friendly.

On the other hand, a bad design example that lacks affordance is a flat panel touch
screen interface on a public transportation kiosk. Without any physical buttons or tactile
cues, users may struggle to navigate the interface and understand how to interact with
it. This lack of affordance can lead to frustration and confusion for users, making the
design less effective and user-friendly.