ABSTRACT

Popular consumer software such as word processors and Internet browsers are controlled with a pointing device such as a mouse or trackball.  On-screen selection has made computers easier to use and more intuitive for the public at large but places a burden on individuals whose hands lack the fine motor control. 
The Graphical User Interface Dexterity Enhancer (GUIDE) consists of two software prototypes.  USER GUIDE is a program that optimizes cursor control by applying a personalized transfer function to mouse input.  This enables a consumer to access standard applications on computers with Windows XP or newer operating systems.  USER GUIDE offers many of the capabilities of a custom mouse driver without risky modifications to the operating system.  PROFESSIONAL GUIDE is an evaluation program for selecting and tuning a personal transfer function that will be embedded in USER GUIDE.  This paper reports on the design and development of the GUIDE programs and some of the initial testing with human subjects.