User Interface (UI)
What is a User Interface?
Software programs or computer systems are controlled using an interface. A user-friendly User Interface also accompanies a graphical user interface, which indicates that the software contains visual tools that the user may operate with a controller since almost every software application has this option.
However, a user interface (UI) is included in most computer hardware, although it is usually not as complicated as a software interface.
Let’s learn more about the user interface.
Elements of User Interface (UI)
The elements of the user interface enable users' options from keypads to scrolling through the menu. These are the elements that are considered for maintaining an interactive web page or any software application.
The following are user interface elements:
Managing Input Transmission
If you want to send a message or control activity for anyone, you can process Information by entering input into the system.
Navigator Elements
This element aims to help users to interact with several options for making a decision. An example can be when you are scrolling through the features of a website or a device.
Elements of sharing Information
Users share Information almost daily through elements of sharing Information. For example, text messaging, tracking the progress, updates or alerts, etc.
Types of User Interface
There are four common styles of a user interface, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks.
1. The CLI (Command Line Interface)
Users must input suitable commands onto the command line using the Command Line Interface. The system is directed to the needed directory initially to allow the control to run a program and retrieve a file.
However, The command-line interface is not widely used anymore as a fundamental user interface., though it is still used in some situations.
2. The interface that is controlled by a menu
This type of interface allows you to select options to process your command into the system. The various options can be in the form of a list—for example, an Automated teller machine.
3. Graphical User Interface
A graphical user interface or GUI is an interface that is visible on your system's desktop. This interface enables you to control the programs on your screen through a cursor or a keypad.
4. GUI with a Touch Screen
Everyone is familiar with this kind of interface, and it is the same as the traditional Graphical user interface. The sole difference is that you control the system through your fingers instead of a mouse or a keypad. Touch screen graphical interface has become more common through tablets, cellphones, and medical equipment; all have touchscreen interfaces.
Pros and Cons
The user interface has a straightforward structure, and memory utilization is kept to a minimum. However, it can become complex for inexperienced users since the command language is challenging to master; this can mostly happen with certain types of user interface such as a command user interface.
Although interfaces like menu-driven are favorable to use for an inexperienced user, it offers a minimal number of options to choose. The GUI supports many apps, programs, and tasks to execute at the same time.
The Bottom Line
With the progression of smartphones, websites, and the digital world taking over, people demand a user-friendly interaction with systems and programs. The user interface facilitates communication between humans and machines that helps maintain the audience’s interest.
So whenever you plan on designing software or a website, make sure that you keep the user interface friendly!