Designing for Interactivity
Computers in Communication
Boston University College of Communication
Copyright © 1996 by Professor Jim Lengel
Examine Examples of Interactivity:
During this session we will examine several interactive multimedia publications,
with an eye to understanding their form, the styles of communication they
use, and their methods of giving the user control over the program. This
critical analysis should help you prepare to design for your own interactive
project.
Interactive Design Principles
We will analyze each publication according to these principles:
User Control
Who is deciding where to go and what to see, the user or the producer? How
much control does the user really have? How does the producer tell her story,
and at the same time let the user feel he is in control?
Navigation
How does the user now where she is, where's she's been, and how to get where
she wants to go?
Design
Is is pleasant to look at and to hear? Does the design match the content
and the purposes of the program?
Designing Your Interactive Project
Here are the steps for you to use in designing an interactive project for
your client.
1. Define the ideas your client wants to communicate.
2. List the basic elements of your project:
· videos · sounds and music
· photographs · drawings and designs
· text articles · voice
3. Choose the appropriate programming tool:
· ClarisWorks · Persuasion
· HyperCard · Astound
4. Plan your project on paper.
· Storyboard · Diagram
· Flow Chart