A study on the impact of icon structural features in human–computer interface on visual search efficiency

Abstract

This article, from the perspective of structural features, focuses on in-car user interface icons and explores the impact of different icon structural features on visual search efficiency. Initially, we categorised the icons into four groups based on structural features: individual structure icons (ISI), enclosed structure icons (ESI), horizontal structure icons (HSI) and vertical structure icons (VSI). Subsequently, we conducted a visual search experiment with structure as the sole variable, recording participants’ behaviours and eye-tracking data. Finally, data analysis was conducted using methods including analysis of variance and logistic regression. The results indicate that differences in icon structural features significantly affect visual search efficiency, showcasing significant intergroup differences. HSI exhibit the highest visual search efficiency, while ESI show the lowest efficiency. ISI have shorter response times but the lowest matching accuracy. VSI only perform better than ESI. These findings hold significant implications for optimising icon design and enhancing visual search efficiency.

Practitioner Summary

Visual search efficiency of icons is crucial for human-computer interaction. We investigated how the structural features of icons influence visual search efficiency. Horizontal icons are most effective, enclosed icons the least. Individual icons are quick but less accurate. Vertical icons outperform enclosed ones. Structural features should be considered in design.

Keywords:

• Human–computer interaction
• icon structural features
• visual search
• icon design

Disclosure statement

The authors affirm that they do not possess any known conflicting financial interests or personal relationships that might have influenced the findings presented in this article.

Data availability statement

Data will be made available on request.

Additional information

Funding

This study was supported by the Guizhou Science and Technology Plan Project (no. ZK[2021]055, and no. ZK[2023]081).