Animating interfaces

We briefly mention some requirements for prototyping tools in user interface and system design. Then, we introduce Animating Interfaces as one collaborative, iterative approach to the rapid conceptual prototyping and simulation of interfaces and associated functionalities. We give a description of the Animating Interfaces process, followed by an illustrated example of the technique. In the example, we use the technique to conceptually design interface conventions and system functionalities for part of a product intended to support collaborative multi-media information use and management. We finish by commenting on the role of the Animating Interfaces technique in the following: uncovering user task knowledge and designer system knowledge; incorporating work and work-context information into the design process; simulating interfaces and system functionalities; and provoking reflection, evaluation and innovation.