Like a Vergence: How to Design User Interfaces for the Computer/TV/INTERNET Port/Phone/Appliance of the near Future

At the start of the new millenium, an important technological development is the vergence of information technologies, communications, and entertainment, currently known as “New Media”. What implications does this technological integration have for user interface design? This panel will address this issue, with specific emphasis on l advocating for users in a rapidly-changing design environment l the user’s attention as a critical resource l the importance of initial usability for new media technologies l new metaphors for new technologies l new interaction paradigms needed with broadband information availability l anticipating the (as yet) unforeseen uses and users of converged technology