Writing for Interaction

Writing for Interaction focuses on the art of creating the information experience as it appears within software and web applications, specifically in the form of user interface text. It also provides strategies for ensuring a consistent, positive information experience across a variety of delivery mechanisms, such as online help and social media.

Throughout this book, you’ll learn simple techniques for writing consistent text with the right tone, how to select content delivery mechanisms, and how straightforward, clear layouts help your customer interact with your application. Divided into five sections, the book completely covers the information experience design process from beginning to end. You’ll cover everything from understanding your users and their needs, to creating personas, designing the IX strategy, creating your information, and evaluating the resulting information experience. This is your one-stop reference for information experience!

• Illuminates writing principles and practices for use in interactive design
• Includes examples, checklists, and sample processes, highlighting practical approaches to designing the information experience
• Provides the complete picture: understanding customer needs, creating personas, and writing the text appearing within the user interface

Table of Contents

Section 1: Introducing the Information Experience
Chapter 1. What is the information experience?
Chapter 2. Design and development models

Section 2: Understanding your users and their information needs
Chapter 3. Getting to know your users
Chapter 4. Gathering data about your users
Chapter 5. Creating Your Personas

Section 3: Designing your IX Strategy
Chapter 6. Understanding User Reading Patterns
Chapter 7. Applying Usability Principles
Chapter 8. Creating Style Guidelines

Section 4: Creating the information experience
Chapter 9. Designing your Information Strategy
Chapter 10. Writing the User Interface Text
Chapter 11. Writing for Diverse Audiences

Section 5: Evaluation
Chapter 12. Evaluating the IX Experience