PROTEUS: an approach to interface evaluation

PROTEUS is a number of software tools which allow the implementation of an iterative, user centred approach to software (particularly interface) design, using rapid prototyping. The tools allow automated collection of questionnaire data, logging of system usage, and the central technique which is the collection of a qualitative representation of users perception of an interface design space, using the Construct Elicitation System. This data is fed back to the designer, and increases understanding user needs in relation to an interface. The paper describes the development of PROTEUS as an integrated evaluation tool, and reports on some of the empirical work underlying the approach embodied by PROTEUS, including its integration into the design of a small but real system.