|
A wizard is an interactive
computer program which acts as an interface to lead a user through
a complex task, using step-by-step dialogs. In some open source
software they are called Druids. Other software products like the
Alpha Five database application development tool, call them "Genies"
to reflect the "magical" help they give users.
Microsoft's Windows 95 was the first
operating system to make use of wizards. The most commonly-used
wizard at the time was the Internet Connection Wizard, which was
renamed to the "New Connection Wizard" in later versions
of Microsoft Windows. This wizard guides the user through the process
of creating a connection to the Internet, or to a Virtual Private
Network. Wizards had become commonplace in most consumer-oriented
operating systems. In Mac OS X, for example, they are called "Assistants";
some examples include the "Setup Assistant", which is
run when one boots the Macintosh for the first time, and the "Network
Setup Assistant", which has similar function to the aforementioned
"New Connection Wizard".
Web applications, such as an airline
booking site, also make use of the wizard paradigm to complete lengthy
interactive processes.
By contrast, expert systems guide
the user through a series of (usually yes/no) questions to solve
a problem, and tend to make use of artificial intelligence or other
complex algorithms. Some consider expert systems as a general category
that includes all problem-solving programs including wizards.
Wizards were controversial among user
interface designers when they first gained widespread use, because
they encourage modal windows, which some consider antithetical to
proper human interface design. Supporters of the wizard paradigm
argue that compliance with what they consider to be arbitrary laws
should be secondary to ease of use in interface design.
Quality Process
Automation
Karomi ENTERPRISE: Although not widely available
today, service-oriented architectures are an umbrella term for a
move in IT systems towards providing greater Quality
Process Automation access and exchange of functionality
between systems. The idea is that both previous and future IT systems
will be re-engineered to provide standard interfaces, thus allowing
themselves to be linked more easily and flexibly. However as these
standard interfaces can only be delivered relatively slowly, it
will be some time before SOA can be viewed as an immediate option
for delivery of process automation.
IT Solutions for SMEs
NBZ
IT Solutions Ltd: We are providing excellent services
in IT
Solutions for SMEs. ERP was expensive and out
of reach of SMEs, but today it has been expanded in order to provide
for small and medium sized companies.NBZ IT Solutions Ltd's Specialists
can help you choose the best cabling and hardware infrastructure
IT Solutions for SMEs. An Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) consultant
is responsible for facilitating the day-to-day management of the
supply-demand chain for larger businesses.
|