INF1520
ASSIGNMENT 3 2025
DUE: JULY 2025 (MEMO)
, INF1520 Assignment 3 2025
2.4 Assignment questions
Question 1
Question 1
Explain why the keys on a computer keyboard are arranged in the order of
QWERTY.
The QWERTY layout was originally created for the first typewriters, where the keys
were arranged alphabetically. However, typists typed so fast that the mechanical parts
of the typewriter jammed frequently. To solve this, designers rearranged the keys into
the QWERTY layout to slow down typing and prevent jamming. Although modern
keyboards no longer have mechanical limitations, the QWERTY layout has remained
due to user familiarity and habit (INF1520, Lesson Tool 3, p. 49).
1.2 There are, potentially, many mistakes that designers can make when
designing interfaces. Specify what are the most problematic mistakes designers
make.
Overemphasising aesthetics at the cost of usability: Designers sometimes focus too
much on making the interface look beautiful rather than making it user-friendly. This
can confuse users or make the system harder to use (INF1520, 3.2.2.1).
Assuming the role of the user: Designers may think they know what users need
because they are experienced in technology. However, they often forget that most
users are not tech-savvy. Designers must involve real users in the design process
early on (INF1520, 3.2.2.2).
Cluttered interfaces: Trying to include too much information can overwhelm users.
There must be a balance between providing helpful information (knowledge in the
ASSIGNMENT 3 2025
DUE: JULY 2025 (MEMO)
, INF1520 Assignment 3 2025
2.4 Assignment questions
Question 1
Question 1
Explain why the keys on a computer keyboard are arranged in the order of
QWERTY.
The QWERTY layout was originally created for the first typewriters, where the keys
were arranged alphabetically. However, typists typed so fast that the mechanical parts
of the typewriter jammed frequently. To solve this, designers rearranged the keys into
the QWERTY layout to slow down typing and prevent jamming. Although modern
keyboards no longer have mechanical limitations, the QWERTY layout has remained
due to user familiarity and habit (INF1520, Lesson Tool 3, p. 49).
1.2 There are, potentially, many mistakes that designers can make when
designing interfaces. Specify what are the most problematic mistakes designers
make.
Overemphasising aesthetics at the cost of usability: Designers sometimes focus too
much on making the interface look beautiful rather than making it user-friendly. This
can confuse users or make the system harder to use (INF1520, 3.2.2.1).
Assuming the role of the user: Designers may think they know what users need
because they are experienced in technology. However, they often forget that most
users are not tech-savvy. Designers must involve real users in the design process
early on (INF1520, 3.2.2.2).
Cluttered interfaces: Trying to include too much information can overwhelm users.
There must be a balance between providing helpful information (knowledge in the
