An interface is the means of communication between the user and the machine. There are several types of user interfaces; different applications could use more than one interface.
Lets look at the different types of interfaces
- Form Based
As the name suggests, these types of interfaces involves the use of forms. Most websites and data entry software are form based. When you create a new email account or register with a service online you use a form based interface to enter your details.
- Menu Based
Menu based interfaces are generally meant to be used in situations where the operator who uses the application or web page does not have a thorough idea of what options are available. Here based on the choices available, a user selects what he prefers and uses it for his benefit. While this is the general purpose of a menu based interface(as mentioned above), today they are an integral part of an application or other interface and are used as a general layout in an interface.
- Graphical Interfaces
Graphical interfaces today make up most of the interfaces in use nowadays. They are usually known as GUI (graphical user interface) and the term ‘WIMP’ (Windows, Icons, Menus, Pointers) is used to denote the contents of a GUI. Graphical interfaces are being enhanced rapidly nowadays adding various elements to the interface which is the main reason causing computers to be upgraded often.
- Command-line interfaces
From the popular to the virtually ‘extinct’, command-line interfaces is known to be something of the past. The DOS operating system is an example of a command line or command driven interface. Here every action requires a series of commands; the commands are then carried out if valid. While at a glance command line interfaces are thought to be slow and difficult, an experienced user could perform tasks faster with a command line interface than a GUI.
- Natural Language Interfaces
This type of interface is interactive and performing tasks is more like a conversation between the user and computer. The program asks questions from the user and based on the answers provided tasks are performed. A more familiar example would be a wizard in an installation program.
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