What Is A User Interface?

Date First Published: 11th December 2023

Topic: Computer Systems

Subtopic: Computer Software

Article Type: Computer Terms & Definitions

Difficulty: Medium

Difficulty Level: 4/10

CONTENTS

Types Of User Interfaces
Difference Between Software and Hardware User Interfaces

Learn about what a user interface is in this article.

A user interface, often abbreviated to a UI, is the space that allows users to interact with a software application, website, or hardware device. Different programs have different user interfaces, but share the same elements. For example, word processing software and spreadsheet software have similar user interfaces, but different features, and provide a consistent user experience across multiple programs.

User interfaces are often user-friendly, intuitive, and easy to use in a way that produces the desired outcome with minimum effort on the user's part. The growing reliance of businesses on web applications and mobile applications has led to developers prioritising the user interface design to improve the overall user experience, compete on the Web, and ensure that visitors gain a positive impression. When designing a user interface, it is important to consider the user's expectations in terms of accessibility, efficiency, usability, and ease of use.

Types Of User Interfaces

Different types of user interfaces include:

Graphical user interface (GUI) - A type of user interface based on graphical icons, windows, buttons, dialogue boxes, menu bars, tabs, toolbars, and images.
Command-line interface (CLI) - A type of user interface based on text commands and a simple text-only interface.
Menu-based interface - A type of user interface based on menus that present users with a list of options.
Adaptive user interface - A type of user interface that adapts its layout, presentation, elements, and options to suit the needs of users and the technology it is running on.
Form-based user interface - A user interface that allows users to enter data into a program or application by offering a limited set of choices.
Voice-based user interface - Allows users to interact with the software application, website, or hardware device using voice commands.
Windows Icons, Menus, and Pointers (WIMP) - A type of GUI that uses a pointer, such as a mouse cursor, to navigate and interact with the computer using windows, icons, and menus.

Difference Between Software and Hardware User Interfaces

User interfaces can be designed for either hardware or software. A software user interface exists as digital data and is displayed on-screen. To interact with a software user interface, a keyboard and mouse is required. Hardware user interfaces are not as complex as software user interfaces and usually consist of buttons that perform different functions. For example, a TV remote control has a numeric keypad, volume and channel buttons, mute and power buttons, and an input selector, which make up the user interface.