Response to Class Discussion-Interfaces

In class we discussed interfaces used on our computers. We talked about whether or not the desktop metaphor is even relevant anymore. Is it? Do we even like it? We also talked about GUIs which are graphic user interfaces. Would/are other graphic user interfaces better than our typical desktop that we use daily?

First let's discuss the desktop metaphor. Wikipedia describes the desktop metaphor very well when it says, "the desktop metaphor treats the monitor of a computer as if it is the user's desktop, upon which objects such as documents and folders of documents can be placed. A document can be opened into a window, which represents a paper copy of the document placed on the desktop." This is what each of us are used to every day when we use our computers whether it be a PC or Mac. There is also this concept of an actual DESK TOP. There are various ways to arrange your DESK TOP virtually and in reality. Personally, I have always been a pretty organized person, so my actual DESK TOP years ago was arranged somewhat organized. When I look at my virtual desk top i see a similar organization to it, but it is done so easily. Each of my files are easily stored, and all I need to do in order to find that folder is double click on it directly on my desktop or scroll down menu bar until I reach it. I do believe this metaphor is still relevant because people like what they know, and they know and understand this representation.

We talked about other GUIs such as Microsoft Bob, Lifestream, and Bump Top. Each of these interfaces are different is some way. Microsoft Bob, which we learned was a huge failure, was depicted in an actual room created for the user to navigate. Bob helps you whenever help is necessary, and the user engages with the objects on the screen. This was created for novice computer users, but I actually think it seems complicated. Lifestream is completely different because it is based on chronology instead of themes (like files). This interface in very cool and interesting in regards to taking photos etc. With this interface it is very simple to navigate through vacations taken before or even medical records, as mentioned in class. The last one discussed, Bump Top, is a virtual desk with documents and literal piles of information. While there is an organizational method to Bump Top it looks very confusing and completely unorganized. I feel that one of the reasons people use a computer is to organize all their information into one area that doesn't look like there actual desk with piles in every corner. While there was a way to fan through or scroll through piles of information it looked confusing. 

There was some discussion about whether or not we as individuals would like an interface designed as a mall for example. There would be a representation of an escalator and each of the stores to the right and left sides of the escalators, just like a directory. This I do think would would well. I like this type of interface because it is very similar to a regular directory in a mall except it shows pictures. People like to engage with pictures rather than words when it's simple. Who wouldn't rather click on a picture of a grocery store, for example, to find it rather than scrolling down a menu bar until you find the word itself?