You can judge a machine by its colour
A
Schneider Electric product story
Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team
Jun 8, 2006
Dave Sutton of Telemecanique argues that the quality of an HMI can change the user's perception of any machine.
For many, it's odd to imagine that one of the most expensive components in most mobile telephones is the clear plastic screen.
Yet, the reason for this investment is clear, if you'll pardon the pun, for the screen is one of the primary interfaces between the user and the equipment.
A crystal clear, scratch resistant screen aids ergonomics, but also creates perceived quality.
The same is equally true of any machine.
The interface with the operator is the primary route to the perceptions they have about that equipment.
Easy programmability and clearly defined information and feedback build confidence in the machine.
Yet, so many designers see the operator control and merely a prerequisite for making the thing work.
Those that consider the way in which people react with machines take a broader view and invest in the technology to improve product discrimination.
There is a well defined reason that bank ATMs, airport check in machines and other information kiosks make such extensive use of colour touch screen technology.
There are now superb industrial colour touch screens for example, even in tiny sises, which allow any equipment to be easily transformed into better interactive tools.
Why so many persist with dumb switches when they can so inexpensively improve their products' appeal is astounding at times.
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