User interface design for keyframe-based browsing of digital video

In this paper we describe a structured approach for the development of user interfaces for the Fichlar video browsing system, a web-based system for recording, browsing and playback of TV programmes. The user interface to the system was originally designed for desktop use with a large screen and a mouse and we are currently developing versions suitable for mobile device (PDA) access to the system. We review a design framework for video browsing interface formats and some of the formats developed for desktop and PDA use, including interfaces for the Psion Revo and Compaq iPAQ PDAs. This work is driven by the need to investigate how best to include the user in the content specification and retrieval loop and how to and the various balance points between user interaction and system automation.