Operator Interfaces

KarssCom realize the objective of interaction between a human and a machine at the user interface is effective operation and control of the machine, and feedback from the machine which aids the operator in making operational decisions.

Our engineers work to a structured design procedure when creating user interfaces that contains disciplines such as ergonomics and psychology.

Our design goal of human-machine interaction is to produce a user interface which makes it easy, efficient, and enjoyable to operate a machine in the way which produces the desired result. This means that the operator needs to provide minimal input to achieve the desired output, and also that the machine minimizes undesired outputs to the human.

We understand the design of a user interface vastly affects the amount of effort the user must expend to provide input for the system and to interpret the output of the system, and how much effort it takes to learn how to do this.

Our user interface designs contain a high degree of usability which takes into account the human psychology and physiology of the users, and makes the process of using the system effective, efficient and satisfying.

Our engineers know the key property of a good user interface is consistency.

Our design procedure emphasises three important aspects.

First, our controls for different features are presented in a consistent manner so that users can find controls easily. For example, users find it very difficult to use software when some commands are available through menus and some through icons. Our design procedure emphasizes that a good user interface provides shortcuts or synonyms that provide parallel access to a feature, so users do not have to search multiple sources to find what they're looking for.

Secondly, our principle of visual consistency is crucial; ensuring that various features work in similar ways.

Thirdly, we maintain our user interfaces do not change version-to-version – we guarantee our user interfaces remain upward compatible.

We know good user interface design is about setting and meeting user expectations. Better (from a programmer's point of view) is not better. The same (from a user's point of view) is better.

Our engineers state that creating the operator interface for a control system is a rewarding, creative and satisfying effort. Our Customers know that a professional user interface provided by KarssCom contributes greatly to the productivity of the controls effort. Our Customers are also highly aware that a poor interface becomes very frustrating, hard to use and may prevent the users from accomplishing their control system goals.

KarssCom firmly believe in knowing your user is the initial step to providing a superior interface. As the users are the operators, customers and people that will eventually sit or stand in front of the screens for hours and hours, keeping their machine running. In all endeavours we repeat the same phrases: know your user, learn to communicate, write specifications, and iterate ideas so that users get a close approximation to, or maybe even more than, what they wanted. We believe in showing users what is possible, this provides vital feedback as they feel more comfortable communicating their requirements.

Our design procedure is flexible so that several designs can be produced during the initial demonstration of the preliminary screens in order to show the users the differences and advantages of a text or icon based system.