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Representation Matters: The Effect of 3D Objects and a Spatial Metaphor in a Graphical User Interface

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Abstract

As computer graphical user interfaces (GUIs) are loaded with increasingly greater numbers of objects, researchers in HCI are forced to look for the next step in constructing user interface. In this paper, we examine the effects of employing more ‘natural’ representations in GUIs. In particular, we experimentally assess the impact of object form (2D iconic vs. 3D realistic) and layout (regular vs. ecological) have on target acquisition time. Results indicate that both form and layout significantly affect performance; subjects located targets more quickly when using interfaces with 3D objects and ecological layouts than they do with 2D objects and regular layouts. An interface with an ecological layout, realistic objects, or both may be an improvement over traditional interfaces.

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© 1998 Springer-Verlag London

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Ark, W., Dryer, D.C., Selker, T., Zhai, S. (1998). Representation Matters: The Effect of 3D Objects and a Spatial Metaphor in a Graphical User Interface. In: Johnson, H., Nigay, L., Roast, C. (eds) People and Computers XIII. Springer, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4471-3605-7_13

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4471-3605-7_13

  • Publisher Name: Springer, London

  • Print ISBN: 978-3-540-76261-4

  • Online ISBN: 978-1-4471-3605-7

  • eBook Packages: Springer Book Archive

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