Abstract: Current intelligent user interfaces have two limitations: (i) They are domain specific and mainly built for existing database management systems, (ii) They are specific to the target systems for which they are constructed. However, user goals, which motivate interactions with a computer, are likely to be complicated and to require the use of multiple target systems in various domains. In this paper, we discuss the development of intelligent user interfaces which are not subject to the limitations identified. An architecture is proposed, the major function of which is the dynamic integration and intelligent use of multiple target systems relevant to a user's goals. Other important features of the proposed system include its theoretical orientation around relevance relationships, mental models and speech acts, and the introduction of “system experts” and “goal manager”. A prototype Intelligent Multifunctional User Interface, (IMUI), is briefly described which indicates that the proposed architecture is viable, the methodology is promising, and the theoretical ideas introduced are worthy of further investigation.

INTRODUCTION

Computer-based systems are coming to play an ever more important part in our society, and as they do so, they become increasingly complicated and difficult to use effectively. As a consequence, the need to develop flexible and versatile intelligent interfaces has become more crucial than ever.

What would an ideal interface look like, and how can such a system be designed and implemented? Most investigators would agree that it should behave like an intelligent human assistant who has expert knowledge both of user characteristics and requirements, and of target system(s).