18. Interaction Design

Interaction Design

You don’t want your users aimlessly scanning the screen in search of the right button to click. You need to send a signal so they know what is to be clicked or hovered or panned.

Here are some resources that you may find useful as you explore ways to highlight interaction design:

• The bible on design by Don Normal is a must-read: Design Everyday Things
• Boxes and Arrows
• Interaction design
• John Stasko's paper titled "Toward a Deeper Understanding of the Role of Interaction in Information Visualization" is also a highly recommended read.

Overall, as I see it, it is our job as dashboard designers to help users achieve their goals in as frustration free a way as possible. In order to choreograph the best interaction dance one needs deep knowledge of both the actors and the stage.