Functionality
Matrix
Primary Reference Source
Catterall, B (1990) The HUFIT functionality matrix -In D. Diaper, G.
Cockton, D. Gilmore, B. Shackel, (Eds) INTERCHI'90, Amsterdam, North-Holland
Summary Description
This is a way of specifying which functions each user type needs. Identifying
which tasks are critical allows more time to be paid to these during design
and usability testing.
Typical Application Areas
Applicable mainly to systems where tasks are well defined.
Benefits
Enables a realistic consideration of early user and task issues on product
functionality specification.
Tailorable to suit varying design processes and in-house styles.
Allows different user types to be considered together in a single process.
Superfluous functions are identified.
Represents a reference in subsequent product lifecycle stages and may be
updated in the light of prototyping.
Limitations
Prime focus on functions and features rather than interface appearance.
Can be cumbersome for large numbers of functions.
Cost of Use
Resources required fairly small. Requires input from different user types
to complete matrix fully.
Costs of acquisition
Compulsory training not specified although the method may require some
degree of practice in order to acquire the basic skills.
Suitability for requirements engineering in telematics
Useful for the specification phase of design process.
Detailed Description of Method
-
Identify user groups and enter into matrix rows.
-
Identify tasks per user group and enter into matrix rows below respective
user group.
-
List potential functions and features and enter into matrix columns.
-
Identify functions which are critical to task.
-
Identify functions which are only occasional used.
-
Add new functions or features as required to support gaps in tasks.
-
Remove functions with are not required.
-
Develop prototype to help create more detailed user requirements specification.
Structure of Functionality Matrix (example)
|
Functions |
| Users and Tasks |
F1 |
F2 |
F3 |
F4 |
F5 |
Key: |
| User A |
|
|
|
|
|
X - Critical to Task |
| Task A |
X |
|
|
|
|
O - Occasional Use |
| Task B |
|
|
O |
|
|
|
| Task C |
|
|
|
|
O |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| User B |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Task A |
|
X |
|
|
|
|
| Task B |
|
|
O |
|
|
|
| Task C |
|
|
|
O |
|
|