Human Computer Interface

• Necessary to allow a human being to communicate with a computer. Two most common types are command line interface (CLI) and graphical user interface (GUI)
• Command Line Interface:

  • User in direct communication with computer
  • User not restricted to pre-determined actions/options
  • Possible to alter computer settings directly
  • Needs very little memory requirement
• Disadvantages of CLI:

  • User needs to learn commands and type them in using the correct format
  • Time consuming and error prone
  • The user needs to understand how computers work
• Graphical User Interface:

  • User limited to icons shown on a screen
  • No need for the user to learn specific commands
  • User needs a pointing device such as a mouse or finger
  • Very good for a novice or user with little knowledge of computers
• Disadvantages of GUI:

  • Considerable memory requirements
  • User limited to icons onscreen
• GUI interfaces are an example of windows, icons, menu and pointing device environments (WIMP)
• Post-WIMP devices such as tablets and smartphones allow for actions such as pinching and rotating - actions that would be impossible in a WIMP environment using a mouse