Designing for Constraints

A simple way to operate

This assignment is based around the premise of one button interaction. In class we’ve discussed one button games and their seemingly infinite possibilities (see Gamasutra’s article) and our experimentation in this. For my own project I decided to work on a navigation system to act a a framework for ease-of-use applications. I’m calling it “SOS” for Simple Operating System (with a little tagline of “A Simple Way to Operate” or perhaps “Simply Helping/Operating”).

I believe there is a huge need for streamlined launching systems for people that have limited movement, understanding of computers, attention spans, etc. - but can be built on systems that are already in place. This kind of structure can be customized by a mediator for the end user (to install applications, help with overall technical problems, system settings, etc), but the front view needs to be an aggregation of the information and services available at it’s most basic form.

A few examples:
An elderly person with limited perception doesn’t need the kind of system preferences, but is still able to use a program to write a letter.
A toddler can’t find a start button or an applications folder, but is still able to play a game and be engaged in learning.
A person with a physical disability that limits their range of motion needs to access navigation, but is unable to use small mouse motions.

This is a first phase, but something I’ve been thinking about for a while. More to come…(?)