For all its versatility an enhanced keyboard is not worth much if the people who use it day to day cannot easily understand what happens when the keys are pressed. Therefore, an enhanced keyboard needs to include a method of creating an overlay to tell the user what each key will do when pressed.Some features when creating an overlay included:
- Ability to use words and short phrases.
- Color coding the keys and their backgrounds.
- Easy to change the overlay.
- Use an existing popular program to create the overlay.
- Have program templates available for programs.
- Protection of the overlay from dirt, grease and use.
Labeling a key with a word or short phrase makes the purpose of the key clear to the user. Use of jargon peculiar to the industry also adds clarity to the keys use.Grouping keys by similar function makes finding a particular key easier. When the keys are color coded by similar function the eye will quickly go to the correct area. Add the ability to color the background and locating keys becomes almost a no brainer. How quickly will a user find the abort key when the key is red on a yellow background?As requirements change key functions maybe redefined and changes to the overlay maybe required. Using an existing program such as Excel, Word or a desktop publisher to create overlays greatly simplifies overlay creation. The overlay creator does not need to install and learn a new program. Redesigning old overlays is quicker since the creator has not forgotten skills particular to a dedicated overlay program.Templates for the most popular programs are great. Having the location of the keys, size of the overlay and margins reduces setup time for whichever program is used to create an overlay.An overlay becomes worthless if it becomes unreadable because of dirt and grease or wears through because of repeated use. The enhanced keyboard needs to have a way of protecting the overlay. One way is to have a protective clear plastic sheet that the overlay fits under. This allow for the use standard paper for the overlay.Creating an attractive and easy to follow overlay greatly increase ease of use of an enhanced keyboard. It is the final touch that makes an enhanced keyboard a valuable addition to any program.
Philip Kidder has worked with computers for over 35 years. He has worked in government as a programmer, in computer sales and as programmer and consultant to both business and individuals.
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