505IT- 505IT Design, Develop, and Assess an Interactive Interface Prototype for a Case Study System: Human Computer Interaction and Web Development, Assignment, CU

Introduction

In this assignment, you will design, develop, and assess an interactive interface prototype for a case study system. The case study system is a web-based application called "EcoTravel Planner," designed to help users plan environmentally friendly travel itineraries. You are required to apply the knowledge and techniques learned throughout the module to create an effective, user-friendly, and innovative interface for this system.

Design Portfolio – 

1. Problem Analysis and Case Study Selection 

• Analyse the "EcoTravel Planner" case study system, identifying its purpose and target users.
• Provide a clear rationale for the selection of this case study system.
• Describe the goals and user requirements for the interface prototype.

2. Interface Design and Prototyping 

• Create low-fidelity storyboards to illustrate the design concept for "EcoTravel Planner."
• Develop medium-fidelity wireframes and prototypes for the chosen case study system.
• Justify design decisions based on HCI principles and usability theory.
• Include appropriate design elements for various device and system types (e.g. desktop, tablet, mobile).

3. Interface Development 

• Implement a high-fidelity interactive prototype for the "EcoTravel Planner" system.
• Ensure the interface is functional, user-friendly, and visually appealing.
• Use suitable web development technologies and programming languages.
• Provide a well-organised codebase with proper comments and documentation.

4. Usability Evaluation 

• Conduct a thorough usability evaluation of the developed interface prototype.
• Use various evaluation methods such as heuristic analysis, usability tests, and cognitive walkthroughs.
• Document the evaluation process, findings, and any necessary improvements.

Learning Outcomes

The Learning Outcomes for this module align to the marking criteria which can be found at the end of this brief. Ensure you understand the marking criteria to ensure achievement of the assessment task. The following module learning outcomes are assessed in this task:

1. Conduct thorough evaluations of system interfaces deploying a variety of usability evaluation methods including heuristic analysis, usability tests and cognitive walkthroughs
2. Apply core Human Computer Interaction (HCI) and Usability Engineering theory to the analysis and design of high quality interfaces for computer and web systems.
3. Generate a range of interface prototypes, from low fidelity storyboards to partial high fidelity applications for a range of device and system types
4. Utilise a variety of tools and techniques for the generation of creative and highly effective web-based systems.