Search

Abstract: Interaction with future coming Smart Environments requires research on methods for the design of a new generation of human–environment interfaces. The paper outlines an original approach to the design of multimodal applications that, while valid for the integration on today’s devices, aims also to be sufficiently flexible so as to remain consistent in view of the transition to future Smart Environments, which will likely be structured in a more complex manner, requiring that interaction with services offered by the environment is made available through the integration of multimodal/unimodal interfaces provided through objects of everyday use. In line with the most recent research tendencies, the approach is centred not only on the user interface part of a system, but on the design of a comprehensive solution, including a dialogue model which is meant to provide a robust support layer on which multimodal interaction builds upon. Specific characteristics of the approach and of a sample application being developed to validate it are discussed in the paper, along with some implementation details. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This paper discusses aspects related to the implementation of Design for All in ICT from a developer oriented perspective. In order to illustrate and exemplify the concepts, the discussion refers to characteristics implemented in the web site of the Italian EDeAN network. The paper proposes adaptation capable platforms as a possible organic solution for instantiating Design for All principles. It presents a modular platform that makes it possible to build services of various types, with focus on its adaptation framework. The platform is inspired by Design for All principles in that it is intended to give support, from the design time on, to a wide range of mobile and wired communication devices, a variety of user characteristics, preferences, and contexts. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]