INTERACTION DESIGN PRINCIPLES FOR INTERACTIVE ...

working on a computer is not a solitary activity, but one that is capable of convening an
active community around an iTV program.
Screen resolution
(amount of information
displayed)
Table 4.1 Televisions versus Computers
Television Computers
Relatively poor Varies from medium-sized
screens to potentially very
large screens
Input devices Remote control and optional
wireless keyboard that are
best for small amounts of
input and user actions
100
Mouse and keyboard sitting
on desk in fixed positions
leading to fast homing time
for hands
Viewing distance Many feet A few inches
User posture Relaxed, reclined Upright, straight
Room Living room, bedroom Home office (paperwork,
(ambiance and tradition tax returns, etc., close by;
implies relaxation)
ambiance implies work)
Integration opportunities Various broadcast shows Productivity applications,
with other things on the
user’s personal data, user’s
same device
work data
Number of users Social: Many people can see Solitary: Few people can
screen (often, several people see the screen (user is
will be in the room when the usually alone while
TV is on)
computing)
User engagement Passive: The viewer receives Active: User issues
whatever the network commands and the
executives decide to put on computer obeys
More importantly, with increasing exposure to interactive programming, and with
increasingly access to PVRs and VOD systems, television viewers are slowly moving
away from the passive model of watching whatever the network executives decide to air
into a more active model where they are able to exert a great deal of control over what
they watch and when they watch it.