5.14. Interface Tools
Getting information out of a database is as important as acquiring it. The point of human-computer communication—the interface—defines the quality and efficiency of the interchange. The better the interface, the easier it is for knowledge workers and managers to interact with computer-based tools. In addition to a mouse, keyboard, speakers, and video display, a variety of specialized software and hardware can make the user interface more effective.
For example, text-to-speech (TTS) engines are useful in creating speech from text displayed on the screen. TTS is commonly used in conjunction with avatars, or graphical representations of some part of the computer, information in the data warehouse, or another knowledge worker. The Microsoft Office "Paper Clip" is one example of how an avatar can be used to introduce novice users to word processing with a computer program. A more warmly accepted avatar is Ananova, the first virtual newscaster (www.ananova.com).
Become an O’Reilly member and get unlimited access to this title plus top books and audiobooks from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers, thousands of courses curated by job role, 150+ live events each month,
and much more.
Read now
Unlock full access