Showing papers on "User Friendly published in 1993"

Developing and distributing user-friendly application software

Abstract: The adoption of new techniques in predictive microbiology by the food industry will ultimately be dependent on the development of user-friendly application software that makes it easy for non-research personnel to employ the mathematical models. Such applications should be an integral part of projects in predictive microbiology. Recommendations related to the architecture, speed, protection, testing, and distribution of application software are presented based on our experience in developing and distributing the ‘Microbial Food Safety Pathogen Modeling Program’.

Spreadsheet models for urban and regional analysis

Abstract: Electronic spreadsheets are second only to word processors as the most widely used computer software tool. They are user friendly: easy to learn, forgiving of errors, and useful with minimal knowledge of computer fundamentals. Their simple format and logical structure provide an environment for examining quantitative problems that can be formulated as two-dimensional tables. In addition, their ability to report the results of changing values stored in the spreadsheet allows analysts to quickly and easily conduct "what-if" analyses, examining the implications of alternative policy choices and different assumptions. This work provides nineteen spreadsheet models that can be used for a wide range of urban and regional analysis and planning applications. They incorporate a common set of procedures for entering data, conducting analyses, and displaying results. This makes it easy for users to become familiar with and use the different models provided in the collection. The models also provide internal documentation allowing users to understand how the models operate and modify them to suit their needs. This definitive guide to spreadsheet applications in urban and regional analysis describes the typographical conventions used and provides detailed instructions for using the models. The book also describes the models' intended application and conceptual basis, the different components of the models, specialized commands and options; sources and procedures for entering required data; guidelines for interpreting and using outputs; and references for further information. It will appeal to professionals, instructors, and students in planning and related fields.

LibGA: a user-friendly workbench for order-based genetic algorithm research

Abstract: Over the years there haa been several packages developed that provide a workbench for genetic algorithm (GA) research. Most of these packages use the generational model inspired by GEN ESIS. A few have adopted the steady-state model used in Genitor. Unfortunately, they have some deficiencies when working with orderhsed problems such as packing, routing, and scheduling. This paper describes LibGA, which was developed specifically for order-baaed problems, but which also works easily with other kinds of problems. It offers an easy to use ‘user-friendly’ interface and allows comparisons to be made between both generational and steadystate genetic algorithms for a particular problem. It includes a variety of genetic operators for reproduction, crossover, and mutation. LibGA makes it easy to use these operators in new ways for particular applications or to develop and include new operators. Finally, it offers the unique new feature of a dynamic generation gap.

Thermodynamic calculations made easy

Abstract: Thermodynamic calculations are used regularly by researchers at universities and in industry to reduce experimental work and to know the equilibrium state. The use of fast computers has supported the development of general software and databases. These fast computers have reached a mature state where almost any type of equilibrium or diagram can be calculated readily. However, the use of such general software, even if it is called “user friendly,” is too difficult except for specialists. There is a need for simplification. The new type of user interface is called an “engineering-oriented” user interface. Ideas for such an interface are discussed. It is based on the most modern hardware and software technology using UNIX and X-windows on modern workstations.

Intelligent support mechanisms in adaptable human-computer interfaces

Abstract: Summary Advanced production technology is not only characterized by higher automation of production flow and control, but more and more measured at the level of the ergonomics of man-machine interaction. Although much effort has been devoted to user friendly design and improved interface techniques, today's systems do not take into account their individual user's problems and tasks. One possible answer to this problem is the design of ‘cooperative’, adaptable or adaptive user interfaces. The idea proposed is to adapt interface behavior (presentation and dialog control) on account of individual user differences or user problems, by reasoning about user intensions in situational work contexts. This paper presents the theory behind and an approach for design of adaptable/adaptive human-computer interfaces for software applications in the field of production technology, exemplified by a shop floor technology planning tool.

User‐friendly guidelines: The missing link?

Abstract: &NA; This article advocates the necessity for a user‐friendly guideline structure to enhance and facilitate physician guideline adoption and use. A discussion of guideline development and history points to the reasons why a user‐friendly practice guideline has not received the attention it deserves. The case is also made that guideline adoption, in general, faces many potential obstacles in the practice of the average physician. Therefore, to be adopted, any guideline has to maximize its physician appeal by being user‐friendly, that is, easy to comprehend and use. To achieve this goal, this article proposes that the final writing of the guideline be turned over to professional writers who follow a programmatic guideline structure.

Using the OSI Directory to achieve User Friendly Naming (OSI-DS 24 (v1.2))

Abstract: The OSI Directory has user friendly naming as a goal. A simple minded usage of the directory does not achieve this. Two aspects not achieved are:

Making medical decision making more user-friendly.

Abstract: In the first twelve years of Medical Decision Making’s published life, its contents reflected, for the most part, what appeared on its editors’ desks in the daily mail. In choosing submissions for publication, my predecessors and I have not selected for articles in any particular orbit as opposed to any other. During my tenure, the only editorial bias I have allowed is a choice to publish a clinical article when I need one more