The two-handed desktop interface: are we there yet?

ABSTRACT

We argue that today's desktop systems poorly engage the hands of users, and reveal a left-hand bias. Arguments are supported by examples and theory -- by juxtaposing the affordances of keyboard/mouse technology with theories of bimanual skill. Scrolling is cited as a task in particularly bad repair. A design improvement is suggested.

REFERENCES

• 1: W. Buxton , B. Myers, A study in two-handed input, Proceedings of the SIGCHI conference on Human factors in computing systems, p.321-326, April 13-17, 1986, Boston, Massachusetts, United States
• 2: Gibson, J. J. The ecological approach to visual perception, Hillsdale NJ: Erlbaum, 1979.
• 3: Guiard, Y. Asymmetric division of labor in human skilled bimanual action: The kinematic chain as a model, Journal of Motor Behavior 19 (1987), 486-517.
• 4: David Canfield Smith , Charles H. Irby, Xerox Star live demonstration, CHI 98 conference summary on Human factors in computing systems, p.17, April 18-23, 1998, Los Angeles, California, United States [doi>10.1145/286498.286507]

INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.2 User Interfaces (D.2.2, H.1.2, I.3.6)
          Subjects: Input devices and strategies (e.g., mouse, touchscreen)

Additional Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.2 User Interfaces (D.2.2, H.1.2, I.3.6)
          Subjects: Style guides; Ergonomics

General Terms:
Algorithms, Design, Human Factors

Keywords:
bimanual skill, handedness, input design, keyboards