GUI for a touch screen

[poggy]

Hi I'm designing a touch screen interface for a project I’m working on, it will be done in the same way I build my websites using .net but I’ve not designed for a touch screen since I was at Uni and I’m a bit unsure on what's correct and what isn’t.

My initial thoughts are to create a flexible expandable design with large text and buttons for navigation. The Site will be going on a Tablet PC with a high gloss screen so i know i need to stay away fro dark colours.

I'm hoping that their will be a designer out there that could point me in the right directions for guidelines?

Many thanks
Poggy

 

[~J~]

Have done a few of these for factories and generally the feedback I got from the people that were using them were as follows:

BIG buttons, big enough to be pressed if hands are holding something, wearing a glove, using an object.

FAST FAST FAST response, no fancy swipes/fades, if people are using a touch screen 'cos it's meant to be quicker, then make it work quick. A second long swipe, scroll, fade or some other fancy effect is a long time when people want information.

One word text description, one simple icon. Nothing more, nothing less.

Audible 'beep' or a flash of the background to show that the system is actually working and that the button has been pressed. Sounds silly if you adhere to the fast response, but people are using their fingers on a smooth surface and as such expect a little 'feedback' somewhere.

Clean and simple. If your program has about 20 functions, don't put them all on the first page if you can avoid it. Have some kind of grouping in place rather than the user having to search a screen full of icons. This is also beneficial too in case your project gets enhanced and the addition of a new button doesn't destroy the original design (of which chances are users will have familiarised themselves with and will curse you for changing the layout!!)

 

[poggy]

That’s some excellent information thanks very much. Like you said I’m just going to keep it as simple as I possible (design wise) can.

Thanks gain
Poggy

 

[~J~]

No worries mate, just hope it helps.