12.3.1.4 define the advantages and disadvantages of a graphical user interface (GUI)
12.3.1.5 define the advantages and disadvantages of a command-line interface (CLI)
12.3.1.6 define the advantages and disadvantages of natural-language and gesture-recognition user interfaces
I. User interface (UI)
The user interface is the means of interaction between the user and the computer system.
When using a graphical interface, the user usually executes commands with graphical objects of the system - WIMP (Windows, Icons, Menus, Pointers) using the mouse pointer or touchpad for interaction.
Advantages
Disadvantages
+ Easy to use for beginners. GUIs are typically user-friendly, with visual elements that are self-explanatory
- Resource intensive. Requires a lot of system resources (CPU, memory).
+ It uses visual elements. The use of icons, buttons, and menus simplifies the interaction.
- Complex development. Designing a GUI is complex and resource-intensive.
+ No need to learn commands. Users can often understand and operate software without extensive training.
- Less efficient for expert users. It can be slower for complex tasks than CLI.
+ Multitasking capability. It is easier to manage multiple tasks or applications simultaneously.
- Limited automation. GUIs are not as efficient for scripting and automation tasks
Examples, Windows, MacOS, etc.
III. Command Line Interface
User interaction with the command line interface occurs by entering commands designed to perform specific operations.
When working with such interfaces, the user needs to know the set of commands that he can use to perform certain actions.
To work with this type of interface, a keyboard must be connected.
The use of the command-line interface does not require large computer resources, since complex graphical objects are not used.
Advantages
Disadvantages
+ Low resource usage. Can run on simple hardware with limited resources.
- Requires learning commands. Incomprehensible for beginners.
+ Efficiency and speed. Faster for experienced users, especially for complex tasks.
- Lack of visuals. No graphical elements, which can make it less engaging.
+ Efficiently use on servers. Provides the server with fast and stable operation, supported by the system administrator
- Error-prone for beginners. Higher risk of errors for inexperienced users.
Example: MS-DOS
IV. Natural Language Interface
To interact with the interface of a natural language, words, and phrases of the languages of communication (English, Kazakh, Russian) are used, which are determined by the system as commands for execution.
Advantages
Disadvantages
+ Ease of use. Intuitive for anyone who can communicate in the natural language.
- Limited domain knowledge. The interface can only respond to programmed commands
+ Suitable for people with disabilities (no arms - spoken, speechless - typed).
- Complexity in design. Difficult to design and implement effectively.
+ Human-like interaction. More conversational and engaging.
- Dependency on language proficiency. The voice interface may need training as different users have different pronunciations.
+ Flexible input. Can understand a variety of inputs (spoken, typed).
- Ambiguity in language. Natural language can be ambiguous and prone to misinterpretation.
Examples: Alisa, Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant or Cortana, etc
V. Gesture Recognition Interface
The gesture recognition interface includes the ability of the system to recognize hand gestures (movements) and even recognize emotions by face. In such systems, users can use simple gestures to control or interact with devices without physically touching them. Many approaches have been made using cameras and computer vision algorithms to interpret sign language.
Also, the Touch-sensitive interface relates to GRI. They work by your finger touching the screen. The touching is detected and translated by the device into instructions. As well as tapping, the screen can sense swiping and pinching actions.
Advantages
Disadvantages
+ Intuitive and natural. Uses a natural way of interacting with human gestures.
- Technical limitations. Requires advanced technology and can be limited by sensor accuracy.
+ Hands-free operation. Allows for interaction in situations where hands are otherwise occupied.
- Environmental constraints. Can be affected by the surrounding environment (e.g., lighting, distance).
+ Enhanced accessibility. Beneficial for users with certain disabilities.
- Physical effort. May require physical effort or be tiring over long periods.
+ Interactive experience. Can create a more immersive and interactive experience (eg. VR).
- Limited precision. Gestures may be less precise than mouse or keyboard inputs.
Examples: Wii, Microsoft's Kinect, Android, iOS
Questions:
"What are the key differences between a Graphical User Interface (GUI) and a Command-Line Interface (CLI)? Give two examples of tasks that might be easier to perform in each interface."
"Consider a task such as scheduling a weekly computer system backup. Would you prefer a CLI or a GUI for this task, and why? Outline the steps you would take in your chosen interface."
"List and explain two advantages and two disadvantages of using a Natural-Language Interface compared to traditional GUIs."
"Imagine you are designing an app for a smart home system. Would you opt for a Gesture-Recognition Interface or a Natural-Language Interface? Justify your choice based on the user experience and functionality."
"How has the development of advanced Natural-Language Interfaces impacted the accessibility of technology for users with disabilities? Provide specific examples."
"Discuss how user interfaces have evolved from early Command-Line Interfaces to modern Gesture-Recognition and Natural-Language Interfaces. What has driven these changes, and what impact have they had on the average computer user's experience?"
Question 1. Why do some system administrators prefer to use Telnet (a CLI) instead of a GUI to control remote computers? (Marks: 2)
Answer.
Sending text commands over the internet is very fast as very little data needs to be sent and received (1).
Using a GUI would take up a lot of bandwidth (1).
Additionally, some commands might be faster to perform using a CLI than a GUI (1).
The gesture recognition interface includes the ability of the system to recognize hand gestures (movements) and even recognize emotions by face. In such systems, users can use simple gestures to control or interact with devices without physically touching them. Many approaches have been made using cameras and computer vision algorithms to interpret sign language.