Functions, applications, and design guidelines for multiple window environments

摘要

Windows are one of the most common user interface designs, despite a lack of theoretical or empirical foundation. This paper begins by defining functions of windows: operational, navigational, organizational, explanatory, metaphorical, and exploratory. Next, the minimal research on the effectiveness of windowed environments is reviewed. Based upon these findings and individual differences and screen design research, principles for designing windowed environments are presented. Perhaps the best use of windows will be as a navigational metaphor in information databases.