On Wed, Feb 13, 2008 at 6:25 PM, Rob Adams <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
> There's nothing wrong with data grids per se. Technology has tendencies which affect our behavior perniciously - the way in which we converse and express. So I don't think a data-grid can be right or wrong, but dangerous yes. Data grids are dangerous. The danger with data grids is two-fold a) They imply a transactional means of interaction. You enter input fields into a search and a datagrid binds outputs. Input entry from user, grid bound output from computer. Stimulus, response. b) They imply a means of information/visualization. Namely, data cells in a regular grid. Want an example of where the datagrid might be dangerous, but nonetheless *the default strategy*? A normal train schedule search. I want to find a train to go from place A to place B at time X. *Data grid Ixd: * Input: place A, place B, time X. Press Search. Output: rows of matching train entries. Don't find what you are looking for? Modify A, B, or X and repeat. *Data grid Visualization:* Data are values placed in a grid cell. Stations, times, and everything else. *Problems with the Data grid approach:* User must find appropriate trains by mental calculation from data. If user doesn't find what he wants, or is off on the times, he begins the dialogue over again. *Non data grid IxD:* Inputs are places on a map. Train time starts now, so no input required. *Non data grid Visualization:* A time schedule where the horizontal axis is time and trains are placed on it. Just look here: http://worrydream.com/bartwidget/ (thanks to Aza Raskin for this example) *Solutions inspired by alternative approach:* A seamless interactive input-output dialogue of dragging stations around which inspires more "what if" scenarios. This solution lets people *see time and compare trains*, it is oriented around planning your route. Therefore, the problem with data grids like any technology is that it curtails our thoughts and limits our expression, and suggests that all problems are readily solved by using it. Navid Sadikali Agfa Healthcare Interaction Design ________________________________________________________________ Welcome to the Interaction Design Association (IxDA)! To post to this list ....... [EMAIL PROTECTED] Unsubscribe ................ http://www.ixda.org/unsubscribe List Guidelines ............ http://www.ixda.org/guidelines List Help .................. http://www.ixda.org/help
