Illustrated in this simple dialog are three common errors that software producers make:
- Assuming that users know what the heck their acronyms mean,
- Not helping users understand the implications of selecting/not selecting an option, and
- Using a single selection control to perform what appears to be a combination of two actions (e.g., “run WinSAT” and “enable Windows Aero desktop theme.”)
Here’s the context: I was finishing up a Windows 7 install, and found an updated driver for my laptop’s video card. When I started the install, I was presented with this dialog.
Honestly, I have no idea what “WinSAT” is, what it does, or why anyone would (or would not) want to run it.
And the second half of the sentence is even more perplexing… is it presenting me with an independent action, or is it referring to a consequence or outcome of “running WinSAT”?
Hey Intel, I love your SSD drives and I’ve been happy with your hardware for years…but you need a bit of work on your software UI’s.
And don’t even get me started on Intel’s software app for handling multiple monitors…it’s the epitome of frustrating software.
{ 4 comments }
Something as fundamental as this as been covered by Alan Cooper many times, and it's in the Gui Bloopers book.
Can't believe a company so big, with so many novice users in the user community, can make such a basic error – duh!
time for a mac upgrade
You are spot on with these answers, I could feel as if I am the one answering all these questions, thanks.
You are spot on with these answers, I could feel as if I am the one answering all these questions, thanks.
Comments on this entry are closed.