UML as a representation for Interaction Design

Abstract

This paper examines the use of the Unified Modeling Language (UML) as a representation for interaction design. We discuss the trade-offs related to applying UML outside its intended application domain and the suitability of UML components for modeling various aspects of interaction: representing user requirements, early envisionment of interaction, task modeling, navigation and detailed interaction specification. Where appropriate we propose and illustrate the combination of UML with purpose-specific notations. Keywords : Unified Modelling Language, User Interface Specification, Task Modelling, Navigation, Interaction Design. 1. Introduction UML [5, 20] is a family of notations which is emerging as the de facto industry standard for the specification of object oriented software. The spread of UML among software practitioners suggests that we consider whether and how UML can serve as a modeling technique for human computer interaction (HCI) design. Interaction design is outside the c...