A Framework for the Rapid Prototyping of Zoomable User Interfaces

Zoomable user interfaces (ZUI) are a superset and potential successor of the familiar Windows, Icons, Menus and Pointers (WIMP) desktop graphical user interface paradigm. However, the process of creating them remains a complex problem. The interplay between the information in the zooming space, the changing semantic content of the information based on scale and novel interaction techniques result in making designing and implementing ZUIs more challenging then for two dimensional interfaces. How can the process of creating ZUIs be simplified? In this thesis the Objects, Regions, Relations and Interface Logic (ORRIL) framework is defined and presented as a technique for aiding ZUI design and creation. ORRIL makes explicit the data that appears in a zoomable information space, while simultaneously emphasising the relationships between user actions and transforms of the data. This is important for modelling and clarifying the processes that occur within a ZUI application. From the perspective of an implementer it may be used as an underlying model when designing and implementing a framework for building ZUIs. The framework was generated by identifying the core requirements, components and functionality needed in a ZUI. Following this was a conversion of the results of the identification into a formal abstraction (ORRIL). This abstraction was then used as the basis for an experimental rapid prototyping tool (Nutmeg) for creating medium to high fidelity ZUIs. Nutmeg and indirectly ORRIL were evaluated to establish how successful they were at simplifying the process of creating ZUIs. Evaluation was carried out by using Nutmeg to implement a range of ZUI interaction techniques and implement a prototype audiovisual ZUI application (Media Dive) for browsing collections of songs. 3 Acknowledgements This thesis would not have occurred without the generosity of numerous people. I am especially indebted to my supervisor Dr. Fred Cummins who gave me the opportunity to pursue my passion. Thanks also to Dr. Sile O'Modhrain for her support and enticing questions, and everyone in MIT's Media Lab Europe for interesting chats, constructive feedback and inspiring ideas. Not least of all everyone in the Adaptive Speech Interfaces Group and the Palpable Machines Group. A big thanks to Rois (who I do believe may have gained knowledge of HCI by osmosis)! Of course this work would not have been possible with the scholarship funding provided by the Higher Education Authority in Ireland. Thank you – it was much appreciated.