Guidelines for selecting the proper device-based control :
1. Task Characteristics:
Structured Arrays: Use keyboards (cursor control keys) for moving through structured arrays with a few discrete objects quickly.
Graphical and Drawing Tasks: For tasks like pointing, selecting, drawing, dragging, or tracking, use alternative pointing devices such as a mouse, joystick, trackball, or graphic tablet.
2. User Characteristics and Preferences:
Touch Typists: Provide keyboards for users who are comfortable with touch typing.
User Comfort: While user preferences don’t always match performance, it’s crucial that users are comfortable with the selected device.
3. Environmental Characteristics:
Fit in Work Environment: Ensure the device fits easily into the work environment.
Desk Space: Check if there is enough desk space for the device, especially if it’s necessary.
4. Hardware Characteristics:
Device Quality: Ensure the device is of good quality, allowing for easy performance of all necessary tasks.
Movement Capabilities: Consider the variability in movement capabilities, for example, in joysticks.
