Situation perception

The need for distinctive design

Q: What if the same screen is used both in normal and exceptional situations?

A: The same screen should not be used in both situations. The two situations require different designs. We should replicate the screen and redesign the two copies in order that one copy is optimized for normal

Guideline

Controls that activate risky functions and screens typical to risky situations should be highlighted.

Visual objects of high risk should be distinguishable from those of low risk to prevent user errors due to similarity.

In order to facilitate recognition of the type of risk, visual objects of similar risk level should be designated by special visual codes.

Example

The color of risky controls may be yellow, orange or red, according to three levels of risks.