Writer’s choice

Each student will design a prototype of a system. The prototype can be one of the following:

• a storyboard, e.g. a “cartoon-like” series of scenes/sketches showing how tasks are performed

• a series of screen sketches or note-cards

• a PowerPoint slide show

• a video simulating the use of a system

• Pictures of a home-made prototype (card board/wood/other materials)

After creating a prototype, students will describe the prototype to a potential manufacturer or developer. This can either be explained in the design of the prototype itself or in a Word document submitted in addition to the prototype design. In your description:

Describe the purpose of the prototype system from the perspective of one primary user/stakeholder group
Describe the user needs and requirements for that type of user. (You can create a short persona for that type of user).
Describe 2 to 4 tasks that the user type has to perform with the prototype
Present the usability requirements and user-experience requirements for those tasks, and the fit criterion for evaluating whether or not they have been achieved successfully.
Present a cognitive walkthrough showing how each of these tasks would be performed with the prototype. Make sure the cognitive walkthrough shows users what to do, how to do it, and provides feedback on whether or not they have done the task successfully.
Lastly, describe how well the prototype addresses their user, usability, and user experience requirements, and why.

The prototype design should include/describe of the following:

• Conceptual design models & metaphors

• Interaction and interface types

• Screen features (e.g., regarding exactly how menus & icons might look)

• Physical appearance (e.g., size, shape, weight)

• System functionality

• Task design and workflow

• Screen layouts and information displays

• System inputs and outputs