Human Computer Interaction special investigation

The traditional idea of technology, as a tool for productivity and work efficiency has shifted dramatically over the past years. The idea of a computer as solely a Business Machine, such as an IBM (International Business Machine) almost seems farcical in today’s age of personal computing, mobile computing and user produced content. This shift, that can be partly associated to the drop in technology and decreased software complexity, has allowed home users and small organisations to access the same standard of computing available to large corporations with the ability to afford previously expensive infrastructure and training costs.

Along with the shift from the traditional workplace role of technology, a swing in the typical user base has also occurred. The typical user is no longer an employee of an organisation working a 40 hour week to achieve a set goal. A typical user could be a young child researching for a school project, an old lady emailing her daughter, a teenager discussing the latest fashion craze on MSN or the typical middle aged able bodied worker we are all so familiar with. It is undeniable that these individuals are all users, yet they have different goals, motives and abilities.

This convolution of the technology user base has created a shift in all computer related disciplines. Software engineers are no longer solely designing outcome based strategic software, computer manufacturers are no longer producing beige-boxes indicative of the pre-2000 corporatization of technology, and HCI methodologies are shifting to include users that are non workers, in non work situations.

While still relevant in the traditional workplace, methodologies such as GOMS model, Hick’s law and Fitts’ law; frameworks for predicting interface speed, are no longer relevant to the majority of personal users, as their motives are not governed by speed and productivity.

In the coming weeks, this Human Computer Interaction blog special will focus on the challenges HCI now faces as the traditional idea of computing changes.

-Jeremy Smith

Install a virtual OS in 10 very easy steps

While using VMware the other day to try out the new version of Sabayon Linux, I had a fantastic idea. Why not use VMware running a Linux distribution as a secure section of my computer to do my internet banking and any other sensitive transactions. This way, I can be certain that my totally insecure Windows XP riddled with questionable software will not spy on any of my sensitive keystrokes or data.

If you have heard the hype and been contemplating trying out Linux, a virtual operating system is a perfect step to trying it out completely risk free. I recommend using Ubuntu operating system on VMware (the virtual operating system emulator). I have very briefly outlined the steps to get this going below.

1. Download VMware from http://www.vmware.com/products/player/

If you can afford it, buy the full version, its well worth it!

2. Download the latest Ubuntu distribution from http://www.ubuntu.com/

3. Install VMware

This is where it gets a little complicated (but still very easy!)

4. Make a new Virtual Machine from the File Menu.

5. Settings: Typical then select Linux and name it anything you like, I simply called it ‘Ubuntu’.

On your new virtual machine:

6. Use VMware to enable the virtual CD drive

7. Menu > VM > Settings > Hardware > CD Rom > Use ISO Image

8. Then navigate to your downloaded Ubuntu file

9. Restart your new VM, the Ubuntu installation should automatically start because you are emulating a installation CD.

10. Install Ubuntu following the simple instructions.

VMware should look after all your internet settings and drivers, so there isn’t any configuring that needs to be done!

Now you have your secure Linux distribution from which you can do your banking etc in a safe environment.

Don’t worry, you can’t make mistake. The worst you can do is start this tutorial again, there is no risk to your computer whatsoever.

While writing this brief article, I had an even better idea! Why not install all your questionable software IN a Virtual operating system, leaving your full installation of XP free of any software of dubious origins. Limewire, Kazaa, eMule, etc can all be installed in the virtual OS leaving your fast and trouble free.

To do this, just follow the same steps above, but install a windows OS.

Im hanging for the day we can do this with MacOS!!

I know a bargain when I see one!

Just stumbled across a great offer for all you University students out there in Australia. You can buy the new version of MS Office Ultimate for only 75bucks! That’s 95% off the retail price. Its totally legal and a big big saving, so if you are considering swapping from the crusty old Office 2000, now’s the time to do it.

Check it out www.itsnotcheating.com.au