The design, use, and performance of edge-scrolling techniques. Issue 97 (January 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Aceituno, J.; Malacria, S.; Quinn, P.; Roussel, N.; Cockburn, A.; Casiez, G.
• Is Part Of: International journal of human-computer studies. Issue 97(2017)
• Page Start: 58
• Page End: 76
• Publication Date: 2017-01
• Subjects: Edge-scrolling -- Scrolling -- Autoscroll -- Dragging; Human-machine systems -- Periodicals; Systems engineering -- Periodicals; Human engineering -- Periodicals; Human engineering; Human-machine systems; Systems engineering; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 004.019
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhcs.2016.08.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1071-5819

Abstract

Abstract: Edge-scrolling techniques automatically scroll the viewport when the user points near its edge, enabling users to reach out-of-view targets during activities such as selection or drag-and-drop. Despite the prevalence of edge-scrolling techniques in desktop interfaces, there is little public research on their behaviour, use or performance. We present a conceptual framework of factors influencing their design. We then analyse 33 different desktop implementations of edge-scrolling by reverse-engineering their behaviour, and demonstrate substantial variance in their design approaches. Results of an interactive survey with 214 participants show that edge-scrolling is widely used and valued, but also that users encounter problems with control and with behavioural inconsistencies. Finally, we report results of a controlled experiment comparing four different implementations of edge-scrolling, which highlight factors from the design space that contribute to substantial differences in performance, overshooting, and perceived workload. Abstract : Highlights: Analyses edge-scrolling, a widely used but largely unstudied interaction. Presents a design space of factors influencing edge-scrolling effectiveness. Reverse-engineers desktop behaviours, revealing substantial design variations. Empirically demonstrates user problems with control and inconsistent behaviour.