Form Vs. Function? Which is More Important in GUI Development?

Form versus function is a long standing argument when it comes to GUI, or graphical user interface, development. It is the Chicken versus Egg question of the computer world. This argument is important to consider when thinking about GUI training or RIA training. Both trainings may bring up the question as to what is more important to a customer such as how something works or how something looks.

Now, before we discuss this, let's discuss "GUI training." During GUI training, students learn about graphical user interfaces. These are interfaces that allow users to interact with a computer in ways other than only typing and text. Some examples of these are iPods, game devices and touch screens. GUI training teaches coders and designers how to create website interfaces that offer images, graphics and other visual indicators instead of basic text.

RIA, or rich internet application, is a type of web application with similarities to desktop applications. Java, Flash and increasingly Adobe Flex are among the most popular RIA platforms. During RIA training, coders and designers are taught how to create websites and interfaces that utilize video capture, one of the hallmarks of the rich internet applications. In RIA training, students are taught how to design things such as gaming sites, video sites, sites with animation, audio sites and other types of interactive sites.

Both GUI training and RIA training is essential to anyone designing, creating, or coding websites. This training is important for the novice, the seasoned professional and everyone in between.

While RIA training and GUI training are essential, the question of form vs. function still remains. The easy answer is they are both equally important.

Form is important because it is often the visual characteristics that attract users to an interface. Some users prefer interfaces that have complex abilities but are easy use and have many interactive possibilities. If the user is not attracted to the interface, they may simply pass it over.

What is the point of form if the functionality is less than stellar? A website or interface can be as visually appealing as a work of art but if it doesn't get the job done, none of that will matter. Thus, functionality has the edge.

Still, GUI training and RIA training will teach students how to place importance on both form and functionality. When it comes down to it, users will most likely notice both.

Susan Slobac is a consultant in the programming industry. Susan writes about trends in GUI training & RIA.