Human-Computer Interaction

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Human-Computer Interaction

Human-computer interaction (HCI) is research in the design and the use of technology, which focuses on the interfaces between people (users) and systems (computers, devices, artefacts, and services). HCI researchers observe the ways humans interact with systems and design technologies or ways of doing that allow humans to interact with systems in friendly ways.

HCI is a multidisciplinary field of study, especially focusing on the design of computer technology and, in particular, the interaction between humans (the users) and computers. While initially concerned with computers, HCI has since expanded to cover almost all forms of information technology design.

HCI surfaced in the 1980s with the advent of personal computing, just as machines such as the Apple Macintosh, and IBM PC started turning up in homes and offices. For the first time, sophisticated electronic systems were available only for particular consumers or for researchers and academicians, but soon to move to general users who would like to use word processors, games units and accounting aids, for which vitally need to be easy and to use and learn. From its origins, HCI would expand to incorporate multiple disciplines, such as computer science, cognitive science, industrial design, and human-factors engineering.