Things that keep us busy
Subtitle: the elements of interaction
By: Lars-Erik Janlert and Erik Stolterman
Contributors: Stolterman, Erik, author
Published: 2017
Language: eng
Number of pages: 231
ISBN-13: 9780262036641
Subjects: Human-machine systems; User interfaces (Computer systems)
Description: We are surrounded by interactive devices, artifacts, and systems. The general assumption is that interactivity is good -- that it is a positive feature associated with being modern, efficient, fast, flexible, and in control. Yet there is no very precise idea of what interaction is and what interactivity means. In this book, Lars-Erik Janlert and Erik Stolterman investigate the elements of interaction and how they can be defined and measured. They focus on interaction with digital artifacts and systems but draw inspiration from the broader, everyday sense of the word. Viewing the topic from a design perspective, Janlert and Stolterman take as their starting point the interface, which is designed to implement the interaction. They explore how the interface has changed over time, from a surface with knobs and dials to clickable symbols to gestures to the absence of anything visible. Janlert and Stolterman examine properties and qualities of designed artifacts and systems, primarily those that are open for manipulation by designers, considering such topics as complexity, clutter, control, and the emergence of an expressive-impressive style of interaction.0They argue that only when we understand the basic concepts and terms of interactivity and interaction will we be able to discuss seriously its possible futures.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references and index.
Table of contents: title: The things that keep us busy --; title: Thought styles and use paradigms --; title: An approach to interactivity --; title: Interaction --; title: Complexity --; title: Control --; title: The character of things --; title: Expressions and impressions --; title: Faceless interaction --; title: Taking measures --; title: Full speed ahead.