Wizard-of-Oz prototyping for co-operative interaction design of graphical user interfaces

Abstract

It is often difficult for users to specify requirements on interactivity in multimedia products. These properties are often designed by designers or software engineers and the users run the risk of playing a passive role having low influence on important decisions made. This paper presents an attempt to improve the interactive design process by using graphical Wizard-of-Oz prototyping. The study shows that graphical Wizard-of-Oz prototyping allow co-operative design and test of computer interaction early in the design process ahead of traditional programming. It also demonstrates that this type of prototyping can promote collaboration and constructive dialogue between users and designers, thus strengthening the user as a stakeholder in the development process. Copyright 2004 ACM.