Graphical User Interface (GUI)
Explanation of this and its advantages and disadvantages
Graphical User Interface
The main features of a GUI include; windows, icons, menus, pointers and taskbars. These features and many others are used to give the user a very intuitive interface and one which they can use efficiently with little trouble and few issues.
Advantages
- No complex language needed - this is very beneficial to the user because this interface is not command driven so the user need not learn any computing language to be able to use their system to its full effects.
- Its use of icons - by merely pointing and clicking on a specific item the user access all of the data they need very quickly. This reduces time spent on trying to get to specific places and therefore gives them more time to do what they want to do rather than having to enter strings of commands.
- Ease of access - most users would agree that it is easier for them to use the mouse rather than the keyboard. This is because the mouse is a much simpler input device due to the fact that all you have to do is point and click. The fact that it has very few buttons also makes it much more user friendly.
Disadvantages
- More memory is needed - sophisticated GUI's require far more memory to be allocated to them so older computers may need to be upgraded or replaced over time.
- Increased processing requirements - faster and more powerful processors are needed to be able to run the latest GUI's. This could either involve having to upgrade the processor or even having to buy a whole new machine.