Supportsoft Glossary

Visual Interface for User Interaction

The visual interface of a computer system is referred to as a graphical user interface (GUI). Users interact with their computers using icons, buttons, menus, sliders, dialogue boxes, and other visual indicators instead of having to type commands. As such, the visual interface allows users to easily and clearly navigate complex processes.

A GUI will take the underlying logic of the system and convert it into visual representations so that users can visually identify what they need to do, just as the dashboard of a vehicle displays a great deal of important information to guide a driver in what to do next. A major emphasis for developers when creating GUIs is to ensure that they are user-friendly, meaning that an individual who does not have extensive technical knowledge should be able to complete tasks without frustration or confusion.

In creating a GUI, there is a combination of both design principles and engineering considerations. Designers create the layouts, colours, and interaction patterns of the various components of the graphical user interface, and the visual design must feel appropriate and comfortable for users. Engineers use frameworks and libraries that will provide the features and functions necessary to create the responsiveness and dynamicity of the GUIs. Testing is very important in this process to confirm that users can complete tasks efficiently without being distracted by anything in the visual interface or confused about how to complete their task.