Integrating principles for human-computer interaction into the design process: heterarchically organized HCI principles

An alternative to the traditional human-factors guideline document is described. This new concept for organizing principles for human-computer interaction (HCI) was developed in response to four deficiencies in existing guidelines: (a) incorrect conceptualization of the units of display design, (b) inadequate integration of principles into process, (c) unrealistic view of the design process, and (d) inadequate communication of content issues. The authors describe the new heterarchical concept for organizing HCI guidance, including examples of how it would be used during the design process and examples of the kind of HCI guidance that appears within it. Under this approach, the basic units are theme-based modules; the organization is based on levels of display system design; and format illustrations are set up as models to be emulated