Graphical User Interfaces

Graphical user interfaces (GUIs) revolutionized the computer industry by making computers easier to use for the general population. It is important that software designers know the basics of GUI design in order to design software systems that are familiar to the user and easy to use.

Participants will be introduced to graphical user interface principles and guidelines, and will learn to design user interfaces employing graphical objects and elements. The human factors of designing a graphical interface will be covered, beginning from a task description and designing navigational features and screen sequences to accomplish the task. Controls appropriate for on-screen information will be discussed, and a project will allow participants to practice the techniques in a design.

Objective:
Students in this one-day intensive course will learn strategies and techniques for the design of graphical user interfaces. Participants will learn the principles of GUI design, as well as learn when to use the appropriate controls. This course is valuable for software engineers, software analysts, documentation professionals, and software support specialists.

Topics:
Origins and history; Metaphors; Basic GUI components and guidelines; Other issues; and introduction to design and evaluation.

Outcomes (skills learned):

	Learn basic principles and techniques of GUI design
	Apply principles and techniques in a design