Human-computer interface design in the software lifecycle

Because human-computer interface design is traditionally included in computer science curricula as an advanced level topic, it is usually perceived as an add-on, and not well integrated into the software lifecycle. An holistic user-centred methodology for system design, one which has proved particularly appropriate for software development based on 4GLs, is described. By treating interface design as an integral component of the analysis and design, rather than an afterthought, successful systems can be produced for the more enlightened, demanding and assertive users of today´s interactive systems. The methodology has been successfully applied as both a teaching tool and in real system development environments