Layout analysis

<h2>Layout Analysis</h2>

<ul>

<li>A method based on spatial diagrams of a product (e.g. component are organised in functional groups) and its output.</li>

<li>The theory is that the layout of the components should reflect the users' structure of the task (e.g. mental models) and the applying a concept of the interface as a 'task map' will help the design process.<a class="thought-link" href="brain://tWU9tRQ1zkSQXgIpZZb7eA/MentalModels">Mental Models</a></li>

<li>Used for interface design looking at how the layout in space supports the user to meet certain objectives.</li>

<li>The aim is to identify links between individuals and parts of the system in workstation operations (e.g. communications links)</li>

<li>Importance (to the task or user), sequence and frequency of use are given priority when designing the layout</li>

<li>The analysis produces recordings of the frequency and importance of links and/or layout recommendations. Rated by users and/or specialists and combines data from observations and other task analysis tools</li>

</ul>

<ul>

<li>low effort, low training need</li>

<li>poor reliability and validity (Stanton and Young 1999)</li>

</ul>

<h3>References</h3>

<p>Kirwan & Ainsworth (1992)</p>

<p>Chapanis (1996)</p>

<p> Easterby 1984</p>

<p>Stanton (1999) </p>

<p>Brook 1998</p>

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