Lecture Notes: Windows 8 User Interface Design

Introduction

• Windows 8 UI design: infamous and controversial.
• Introduced two interfaces: classic desktop and modern UI (Metro).
• Critiqued by usability expert Jacob Nielsen as a "tragic mistake."

Key Critiques of Windows 8

Dual User Interface

• Called the "Jekyll and Hyde" of operating systems.
  • Good for tablets.
  • Poor for desktops.
• Dual UI setup caused confusion:
  • Twice the confusion without additional value.
  • UX identity crisis.

User Experience Challenges

• Attempt to cater to both mobile and desktop users:
  • Mobile users: Swiping.
  • Desktop users: Mouse usage.
• Result: Displeased both user groups.
• Complex app-switching process:
  • Required hidden sidebar and precise actions.

Ambitions of Windows 8

• Microsoft aimed for a universal operating system.
• Designed for desktops, laptops, tablets, and future devices.
• Challenges:
  • Users forced to unlearn habitual actions.
  • Productivity decreased due to new system complexity.
  • Start menu overhaul created user difficulties.

Reflections on Windows 8

• Preview of touch-centric, adaptable interfaces future.
• Not entirely "bad," rather too ambitious too soon.
• Cautionary tale about being overly ambitious in UI updates.

Personal Thoughts

• Lecturer used Windows 8 until upgrade to Windows 10.
• Invites audience to share their thoughts on the UI changes.