Human Factors International (India)

In this paper we describe a methodology for specifying a user interface application for mobile handset interfaces. This was derived from a design project in which Human Factors International worked together with one of the world's largest handset manufacturers on supporting the development and documentation of the user interface for one of the major US carriers. The methodology arose as a result of the challenges that the design team faced during the course of the project. Key goals of the resulting tool and process were to be as lightweight as possible, to cater for the different information needs of the various Stakeholders, and to be easy to create and update. The resulting tool was PowerPoint based and divided documentation into high and low level descriptions to meet the needs of both product management stakeholders and the development stakeholders. Overall, the improved documentation creation process and the clearer documentation which results have the ability to significantly accelerate the development process.

Information Technology has had significant impact on the society and has touched all aspects of our lives. So far, computers and expensive devices have fueled this growth. The challenge now is to take this success of IT to its next level where IT services can be accessed by masses. Masses here mean the people who (a) are not yet IT literate and/or (b) do not have the purchase power to use the current IT delivery mechanisms (PC centric model) and/or (c) do not find current IT solutions and services relevant to their life or business. Interestingly, a huge portion of the world's population falls in this category. To enable the IT access to such masses, this workshop focuses on easy-to-use and affordable, yet powerful, user interfaces that can be used by this population.

We increasingly live a 'local' global existence, whereby we are affected by the connectedness of the world but at the same time desire to retain our local identity. In this scenario, what strategy should one adopt when designing products and interfaces for use across the world? While we know the pitfalls of the 'one size fits all' strategy, is there an alternative way to include the cultural element in design without incurring huge cost and effort? This paper discusses one such strategy that allows cultural customisation without the' kill bill' budget.

As designers, we are solution seekers and innovators. It is in our core to find the best method or design to meet the needs of the customer, or create a great intuitive product that brings the most revenue. However, most of the work is concentrated on designing products for the people in the developed countries who could afford luxuries like the iPod and alike. There is a great shift now towards reaching beyond borders, especially designing for the people at the bottom of the pyramid. In this panel, we will concentrate on two areas that the design can play a significant role in advancement of societies: (1) Design for improving socio-economic structure such education, health, food and shelter, (2) Design for creating commercially viable products that can create sustainable businesses. Our panelists will share their experiences on how we, as designers, can make a difference in the way people live their lives.

In this SIG experienced usability professionals will share tips and tricks for useful and usable recommendations resulting from usability tests. The discussion will be based on carefully analyzed, real-world examples.

Applications, interfaces, and devices are increasingly customized to appeal to users with vastly different needs, desires, and values. In the past, products were built on the basis of technical proficiency, education, and age; now, product designers are embracing culture.How can human factors professionals support this work? This SIG will examine issues and strategies to be considered when evaluating product interfaces in two or more countries or cultures.A panel of practitioners will review some of the problems they faced in selecting and customizing methods for international usability design. SIG participants will then be invited to brainstorm and contribute their own "war stories" and experiences.It is expected that this SIG will generate 1) a range of case studies and 2) a reference list of people working in different countries and cultures who can help one another do international usability evaluation.