Human attention and memory are two important factors which can be related to ISD and HCI. When it comes to perception and attention, the human brain is limited.

There are two ways in which our attention can operate. We can have focussed attention which means we are focussed on a single event or operation (e.g. answering an exam question in an examination room). Alternatively, we can have divided attention which involved us paying attention to more than one thing at the same time (e.g. driving and listening to radio)

Applying this to ISD, designs need to take into consideration how a user operates. It is more than likely that they will want to be able to keep track of more than one activity at a time. Their attention will be divided.

Using methods such as WIMP systems, which involve the layering of "windows" (example of a computing metaphor), enable the user to switch their attention or focus easily.

Just because software development techniques now allow us to employ many different perceptual cues, it is important to not let these become overly used. Simplicity is always an important factor in making a system or object easy to use. Avoid stuffing the interface with unnecessary clutter just because you can!

Search for "Attention and Memory" on: Google | Kelkoo | Amazon | eBay (UK) | eBay (US)

Search for "Attention and Memory" on the rest of Computing Students: Attention and Memory