Our Objective
The goal of HCI is to bring to bear the appropriate methods to ensure that, given the constraints of the particular software development effort and those imposed by the task and users, the system interface is maximally functional, usable, and learnable. Research on HCI practice is clear on the fact that bringing to bear multiple experts and multiple methods improves the outcome. Our team practices group design principles and, with a breadth of expertise in user-interface design methods, does not put the any given method (cart) before the specific interface challenge (horse). Applying a single method to any and all problems is a common mistake that yields poor results in the practice of user-interface design. Separating the practice of HCI (design, user testing, and evaluation) from specific tools, platforms, and methods is essential to doing it right.
Process
The HCI process involves user research, interaction design, and usability evaluation. The iterative nature ensures that issues are addressed early, and that the final product is right for everyone involved.
Methods
Based on project constraints like a focus on error rate or efficiency, time allotted for HCI process, and the stage of development, we choose from a broad set of methods that include expert evaluation and user evaluation.
Projects
Software development projects have asked for our expertise in a variety of domains. A closer look at our projects from work ground systems for the Mars Exploration Rovers '03 mission to investigation support tools.
