Introduction
For this task, an issue related to the usability of the mute function within video conference platforms was identified. The main intention is to design a superior UI for this vital functionality. While there were various hurdles along the way, the articles provided great motivation. This paper presents significant insights, identifies a recognized issue, proposes a solution, outlines the methods used for development, and evaluates the journey.
Literature Review
According to Norman (2013, p. 9), the concept of affordances traps one’s attention. They intriguingly shape user behavior; therefore, the buttons for muting vague arrangements needed to furnish a distinct indication. It resulted in individuals unintentionally activating or disabling the option. Barnum (2011, p. 67) stressed the importance of evaluating user experience and incremental design. Therefore, evaluating the user experience of a mute button is imperative.
Problem
The problem regarding the mute button is based on the need for more evident visual prompts. Many users need help telling apart the sound-off and sound-on states. These issues often cause audio disruptions during virtual meetings. The usability issue originates from the idea of an incorrect suggestion (Barnum, 2011, p. 18). The button is active but does not exhibit the expected behavior.
Solution
To address the issue, a modern mute button interface featuring clear visual signals has been developed. The current state presents a prominent ruby tint with a microphone emblem. A translucent sound capture symbol indicates the disabled status. Moreover, when silenced, the switch displays a moving “zzz” sign, providing a helpful signal to users.
Prototypes of the existing and suggested interface designs are generated using Moqups (Muñoz et al., 2019). The new interface dramatically enhances the button’s usability as it is clear whether the music is silenced, as shown in Figure 1 below.
Furthermore, the visuals provide a dash of fun without sacrificing functionality. During this project, Moqups is used for creating and visualizing the interface. It provided a reliable platform to view the remedy and modify various design aspects.
Conclusion
The activity was a revelation, leading to an understanding of the relevance of quality interface design and recognizing that the challenges users face arise from poor design, not their incompetence. Acknowledging the importance of user input supports the enhancement of interfaces (Ochoa et al., 2020). Ultimately, the project leverages concepts from Norman and Barnum’s texts to address a specific user experience issue.
References
Barnum, C. M. (2011). Usability testing essentials: Ready, Set– Test! Morgan Kaufmann.
Muñoz, A., Mahiques, X., Solanes, J. E., Martí, A. Z., Gracia, L., & Tornero, J. (2019). Mixed reality-based user interface for quality control inspection of car body surfaces. Journal of Manufacturing Systems, 53, 75–92.
Norman, D. A. (2013). The design of everyday things: Revised and Expanded Edition. Constellation.
Ochoa, D., Hercules, A., Carmona, M. Á. L., Suveges, D., Gonzalez-Uriarte, A., Malangone, C., Miranda, A., Fumis, L., Carvalho-Silva, D., Spitzer, M., Baker, J., Ferrer, J., Raies, A. B., Razuvayevskaya, O., Faulconbridge, A., Petsalaki, E., Mutowo, P., Machlitt-Northen, S., Peat, G.,… McDonagh, E. M. (2020). Open Targets Platform: supporting systematic drug–target identification and prioritization. Nucleic Acids Research, 49(D1), D1302–D1310.