Back to the future: a graphical layering system inspired by transparent paper

Abstract

Many graphics systems today use transparent layers to help users crganize information. However, due to problems in the User Interface desigm these systems often confuse users anddistract them frcnnthe tasktbey are trying toaccOmplish. Before the advent of desktop computers, people managed similar problems by drawing on sheets of plastic transpmnt paper (transparencies). Believing that layering is a powerful technique, we reexamined the qualities of these transparencies as a source of inspiration. This gave us some innovative ideas. We built a prototype. Pilot studies performed on the prototype show promising results.