Guidelines for the syntactic design of audio cues in computer interfaces

Abstract

A logical next step in the evolution of the computer/user interface is the incorporation of sound, thereby using the sense of hearing in our communication with the computer. This allows our visual and auditory capacities to work in unison, which produces a more effective and efficient interpretation of information received from the computer than sight alone. In this paper we examine earcons, which are audio cues used in the computer/user interface to provide information and feedback to the user about computer entities. (Earcons include messages and functions, as well as states and labels.) Here we present design guidelines for the syntax of earcons. Earcons are constructed from pitches, rhythms, and motives, short sequences of notes with a specific rhythm and pitch, embellished by timbre, dynamics, and register. Compound earcons and family earcons are introduced. These are related motives that serve to identify a family of related cues. Examples of earcons are given. 18 refs.