Publisher's Synopsis
Public access systems are destined to become a more familiar part of everyone?s life. Whether it?s the cash machine, the traveller's information point, information on the Internet or the computerised library catalogue, they must be designed to be easy to use. - - This book applies the principles of Human-Computer Interaction to the design of public access systems, guiding you step-by-step to ensure that the interface between the user, the system and the database really works. Focusing on the needs of the wide variety of public rather than office users, the authors explain how to evaluate the interface design, give checklists for guidance, and appraise users and user environments, search strategies and interaction styles. Real-life examples show why successful systems have worked well and how pitfalls can be avoided. - - This book is a practical, jargon-free guide to making sure that public access systems work well, and keep the customers happy. Lecturers and students of information management, retrieval, systems, technology and computer science will find it an informative response to one of today's biggest challenges. For communication, business and marketing students, and for the financial and retail sectors, Designing Public Access Systems covers an increasingly important aspect of customer service.
