By John K (February 8, 2009) (Reading 1)

In Talbott’s article, he suggests that people respond more to digital machines as if they were people. The article also expresses the need for transparency in computer interfaces. For example, when writing a document, the user should be able to focus on the writing, rather than the requirements of the word processor.

Engineers often design devices that act as extensions to the human body. For instance, the controls of a compact car are relatively consistent in every make and model. Each manufacturer conforms to the same standards that were implemented since the invention of the motorized vehicle. When a user enters a vehicle, they expect the gas pedal to be to the right of the brake pedal. When a steering wheel is rotated to the right, the car moves to the right. What would the reaction be if a user turned the steering wheel left, but the car turned right? Or, what would happen if the break and the gas pedals were reversed?

When driving a car, the interface needs to be transparent. The sense of transparency enables the car to feel as though it is an extension of the user. Although our bodies are not connected to the rear bumper of the vehicle, experienced drivers understand the space of the vehicle when attempting to parallel park.

To further explore this methodology, consider the process of purchasing a vehicle.  Often times, choosing a vehicle becomes a personal matter – the type of car that you drive can say something about who you are. The color, make, model, cost, shape, efficiency, etc of a vehicle all factor into the decision making process. For instance, I own a 2001 Toyota Corolla. It’s silver. It’s also equipped with a cassette deck and cloth seats. The carpets are stained and the body is dented – but I prefer it that way. When running though my options:

1.    Mini-van: Too much gas consumption, really farty, takes up too much space.
2.    Lexus: Pardon me, But do you happen to have any Grey Poupon? I’d look too goofy driving a car like that with my grunge flannel shirts from the 90’s.
3.    Truck: No thanks, I’m a software guy.
4.    Muscle car: hahaha
5.    Compact car: Sure, it gets me from point a to point b and does not draw too much attention. Perfect.

Also, when I’m looking to buy a new car, I get a used one. If I get a new car, I’d always be worried about it getting scratched or dented. I’d also think twice about stuffing a year’s worth of McDonald’s hamburger wrappers under the seats. I’d also freak out if I spilled coffee on the center console (I like my coffee more than I like my car).

With that said, I’d rather not get an old junker either. I’ve had plenty of those. I’d rather not know the tow-guy by first name. “Hey Jim, good to see you again. How’s Tommy doing in school? Did you go out for Martha’s birthday last friday? Oh, yeah… of course you know where I live. How much do I owe you?”.

What kind of car do you drive?