Optimization of Keyboard Design for Specialized Text Entry
Gregory Francis, Clarence E. Rash · Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society Annual Meeting · 2003
As computers are introduced into ever more devices with new methods of inputting information, there has been interest in how to optimally design the information input system. We build on previous work along these lines to demonstrate a program that can quickly build the optimal keyboard layout that minimizes the time required to input a given set of data. This approach makes it possible to create different keyboard designs for different specialized uses of keyboards and/or for different individuals. In our report we outline the basic approach to the optimization process, identify situations where such optimization could be beneficial, and demonstrate the effectiveness of the optimization.