Wizards

Wizards, Styles & Wizards, Styles & TemplatesTemplatesMr Sehmbi

WizardsWizardsA wizard is user interface which

presents the user with a sequence of dialogue boxes that lead the user through a series of well-defined steps. Tasks that are complex, infrequently performed, or unfamiliar may be easier to perform using a wizard.

Examples of WizardsExamples of WizardsWe have come across many

different wizards whilst using application software.◦Word/DTP – Mail Merge◦Database – Creating a new Form or a

Report◦DTP – Setting up a new brochure etc◦Spreadsheets – Chart wizard

Characteristics of WizardsCharacteristics of WizardsStep by Step processStandard formats to choose formNumerous optionsEnd result is based on choices

made by the userCan offer a preview of what final

document will look likeCan speed up the process of

producing the document.

+/- of Wizards+/- of WizardsAdvantages of Wizards Disadvantages of WizardsAssist users to easily set up or complete Task

The number of options can often be limited. Can only choose from those available.

They enable inexperienced users to complete tasks that may otherwise be difficult

May offer the user options that are not always necessary or wanted

They enable inexperienced user to produce professional looking results. (newsletters)

The layout or format of the wizard may not always be appropriate to the users requirements.

The offer a user friendly step by step approach

The end result may look similar to those created by other individuals or companies

A corporate image or house style can easily be developed

Wizards do not always allow for customisation by the user.

Style SheetsStyle SheetsA style sheet contains the

instructions for the layout of a document, such as the font styles and sizes to be used, the style of headings and sub-headings, the size of the margins etc.

Style sheets are used to maintain consistency throughout the document and across an organisation

Style SheetsStyle SheetsWe will discuss this in more

depth at the start of the next coursework Task.

TemplatesTemplatesA template is a tool for ensuring

that all documents or pages have a standard layout, look and feel. Changes made to templates automatically update any pages or documents which are based on the template.

Examples of templatesExamples of templatesWord processing packages offer a

range of different templates such as fax templates, memo templates, letter templates etc.

Presentation packages offer a large range of background design templates.

Most web pages on web sites are based on templates which govern where the menu will be on the page, where the page heading and page content will be situated.

Purpose of TemplatesPurpose of TemplatesDetermine basic structure of

documentEnsure document remains

consistentHelp support the “corporate image”Reduction in errorsRe-usableMinimal training for the users. As

designs are already set out.

CharacteristicsCharacteristicsPage formatting – Margins, Size,

LayoutStandard text –

data/time/header/footerFormatting – font

size/colour/styleStandard Graphics – Logo

positioning

Template IssuesTemplate IssuesAppropriateness – will the

Template be appropriate for every situation or audience?

Mistakes – If a mistake is made on a template for example wrong telephone number, then every document sent out will be incorrect.