Graphical Means of Directing User's Attention in the Visual Interface

This paper presents two experiments in using “masks” to direct users’ attention within a graphical user interface. Bleaching, darkening, blurring, and a solid-color pattern overlay (screening) are used to de-emphasize background material, causing the target to visually “pop-out” at the user. The tradeoff between effectively directing the user’s attention and ensuring the readability of the background material is explored. Experimental results indicate that there is a wide range of darkening and screening levels that can create a pop-out effect without degrading the readability of the masked area.