To perform an operation, the user must select a tool and its point of application separately. If the optimal use of the tool requires an alternate view of the application, selecting the view must be performed as an additional step.
Interface places tools on movable, transparent sheets that overlay the work area.
The user positions these sheets over the application and operates through the tools on the objects beneath. By positioning the tools over the work, we can combine the selection of the view, the tool and its point of application into one operation. The Magic Lens Interface is an exciting new design space for tools that can be applied both within and across applications. It can be constructed to make good use of two hands, where one hand moves the sheet to position tools and the other operates through the tools. Tools can be composed by overlapping, providing a graphical way to construct complex tools out of simple ones.