A Graph Based Methodology for the Representation and Evaluation of Text Input Strategies for Miniature and Mobile Devices

Abstract

In this paper a new methodology for representing text-input strategies for miniature and mobile devices is presented. The methodology is based on representing text-input strategies as graphs. Graph representations allow different static mobile text-input strategies to be represented in a uniform manner. Further, different strategies are easily compared as the graph representation allows various characteristics to be extracted. The methodology incorporates KSPC (KeyStrokes Per Character), checking for error recoverability and correctness. We also propose an error recovery measure – the mean error recovery distance (MERD). The methodology can be expanded to include additional evaluation measures and it is feasible to implement design-tool support. Finally, the methodology is demonstrated on several text entry designs from the literature.