User Interfaces with paper and scissor
Multi-touch computing revolutionizes the way we interact with computers. Previous, indirect computer-controlled guidance via mouse is giving way to the natural control by human hand – or rather the parallel interaction of both hands. NUIs (Natural User Interfaces) enable immediate interaction with content.
Gestures and combinations of such allow for plenty of novel and natural interactions. The decade-old practiced patterns have to be downright „unlearned“, which can be difficult even for those involved in the project. In such cases, directly experienced sketching on a model can be helpful. That is why our Creative Lab works with so-called Paper-Prototyping during the conceptual and creative stage.
In contrast to the common usage of wireframes, Paper-Prototyping has a distinct advantage: the hands are thinking along. This multi-sensual approach raises the eye’s awareness for many new possibilities. At the same, a feeling is developed for the proportions of the interactive object, its susceptibility to manipulation and potential models of interaction.
With this method, a small group can relatively easily establish a workflow. To achieve this, we document the flowing states on a 1:1 Paper-Prototype and record singular key states with a camera. These shots can effortlessly be put together for a presentation and be explained. This has shown proof of value especially when wanting to communicate early ideas to clients.
About the author
In his role as Senior Art Director at Syzygy, Peter Sellinger engages primarily with concept studies and application scenarios for new technologies – ranging from mobile and multi-touch all the way to the „Internet of things“. He played a significant part in the success of the multi-touch application for the o2 Flagship Store.
