7. Features of different feedback methods
Text feedback
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Very flexible as the feedback can be any message | Has to be in a language that the user understands. |
| The message can stay on screen until the user cancels it | Poorly worded feedback can be confusing |
| There has to be some visual device available to view the text i.e. screen |
Graphical feedback
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Very compact. Many icons can be used in a small space | Usually needs a pointing device such as mouse to select although keystroke may be allowed as well |
| Easy to use | No good if the user needs additional information |
| Icon has to have some meaning to the user. For instance most people understand that pressing the print icon will lead to a printer being used. Obscure icons are less useful |
Sound feedback
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Very good for alerting people who are busy doing something else. e.g. typing a letter and the disk becomes full or an email arrives | Has to have a sound system available |
| Can impart complex information if speech is used. | Can only provide instant information - person will not be aware of it if they are away from the computer |
| No visual device is needed i.e. screen, so good for telephone systems | No good in noisy environments where the sound cannot be heard |