#How hard to convert?
3 messages in this thread
David,
I agree. The Windows interface is app-centric, which is to say (IMO),
task-centric. The Mac interface is clearly document centered.
But in terms of using a computer (or anything), I tend to think in terms of
tools, not objects.
Rich
The tool/object discussion is interesting, and apt, when comparing DOS and the
Macintosh interface. I was just reading Macintosh Programming Secrets and there
is a section in on of the chapters called "Select, then act." Traditional
computer operating systems use "act, then select." For example, to delete text
you enter "delete" mode and then you chose the text you want to delete. These
modes are a big no-no for Macintosh software, which allows you to delete (or
anything else you want to do) anytime. Because humans aren't used to dealing
with modes in real life, the argument goes, "select, then act" is much more
natural.
Of course there are some things that are naturally modal. You can only write on
one piece of paper at a time. You can either use a pen or a pencil. The
Macintosh interface reflect this, by necessity.
Anne
Anne,
>>
I was just reading Macintosh Programming Secrets and there is a section in on
of the chapters called "Select, then act." Traditional computer operating
systems use "act, then select."
<<
Too true – but it is interesting to note how people have adapted to act and
select. Take Lotus 123 users, for example. The old 123 command for copy…
/C<select><enter><select><enter> is so natural to many millions of PC users
around the world. When Windows finally came along, the thought of choosing copy
AFTER highlighting what you want to copy gets just about everyone first time
around.
It amazes me how many sane people know WordPerfect (DOS) inside out and
backwards… it is one of the unfriendly best selling programs I know of. (I
refure to call DOS programs applications.)
Dave.