Interface metaphor design and instant messaging for older adults

• DOI: 10.1145/1358628.1358924
• Publication Date: 2008-04-08T16:27:59Z
• Authors: Suzanne Prior; John Arnott; Anna Dickinson
• Keywords: Instant messaging; USable; Interface (matter); Instant; Text Messaging

Instant Messaging is currently not widely adopted among older computer users. An investigation has therefore been conducted into the use of by novices, with particular emphasis on an alternative metaphor in user interface to try produce a more usable and acceptable solution for adults. Two messenger interfaces (a traditional one experimental alternative) were designed study compared through measurement participant interview. Results showed that performed better overall majority participants preferred it future use.