Page 26 - DCAP512_WAP_AND_WML

WAP & WML

Notes Context of Use

The situation or context of use is more demanding than under the usual circumstances when
designing “stationary” software for office use. When using a mobile device, the users will
probably experience a larger number of interfering factors, which will distract their attention.
It is recommended that user testing on all services are done in a live environment.
To assure that the application is usable, the design process should be user centered, rather than
technology driven. If you start to think about WAP applications consider your:
 Primary user group
 Context of use
 Primary user tasks.

Task Analyse what is a microbrowser? Name some of mobile browsers used by WAP-
enabled devices.

Information Access

Motto: Keep the Focus on the Task and the most Relevant Information, Functions / Links, ...
The tasks conducted on a WAP terminal can be divided into two major task types:
1. Information retrieval, e.g. getting the latest news:
i. Usually the users will prefer to use a normal PC based Internet connection to browse
for information.
2. Problem solving, e.g. getting information about and book the next connection flight:
i. This makes it important to make sure that the users are able to work on their tasks
by allowing quick access to brief information.
ii. Focus on the most needed functions in relation to most important information
regarding the focused task.
iii. Keep an acceptable and understandable ratio between information value and
interaction effort.

Task In a group of four analyze what are the issues involved in designing WAP applications?

Self Assessment

Fill in the blanks:
9. ……………………. is especially important in the context of use in a mobile environment.
10. Good utilization of the extremely ……………………. display space is important.
11. To assure that the application is usable, the design process should be user centered, rather
than ……………………. driven.
12. Focus on the most needed ……………………. in relation to most important information
regarding the focused task.

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