graphics and an enormous library of graphic routines.A solely on memory common GUl platform also provides the capability of .Provide the operator with feedback on task execu- being independent of database structures and data resi- tion (i.e."busy"or "work in progress,"etc.) dency. Increase the use of mouse functionality and mini- The primary tool/technique that has evolved in the mize typing by the user last few years to facilitate the use of such a platform is Provide the user with an option to exit before exe full graphics,which has revolutionized the user interface cuting destructive requests. aspect of utility automation.Some of the basic features These goals enable the GUI system to build a world- that a windows-based full graphics GUl system can pro- coordinate system and to provide an enhanced operator vide are: interface with the following functions. Intuitive interface *Zooming allows the user to increase or decrease Flexibility the scope of data being displayed. Common derivability Layering and decluttering allows the user to Configuration of function completion screen information for presentation of data that is Underlying procedural and/or protocol benefits pertinent to a particular zoom level (see Figure 2). These features increase the operator's productivity In this case,devices that need to show only at a by providing the information needed during any activity higher zoom level have been screened (for exam- that requires the user to interact with a system applica- ple,certain telemetered switches). tion.A GUl that contains these characteristics allows the Panning allows the user to navigate from one loca- user to customize the work area in the operator's con- tion in the display (maybe in a substation one-line sole according to individual needs.This also allows the diagram)to another. operator both textual and graphi- cal interfaces to adapt quite readi- A ly to user preferences Nowadays,more and more users are required to perform multiple functions from different windows on the same terminal. The operations methodology in this multivendor product environ- ment must be intuitive.In addi- tion to making the operators more productive.this also goes a long way towards decluttering desks of unnecessary hardware Ease of User Operation Any effective user interface must be designed to allow the user to be in control.The first step toward achieving such a goal is for utility customers to develop their own GUI display guidelines. The best way to utilize the avail able GUl features to make an operator's job more productive is for the display design to foster a Figure 3.Arrangement of viewports consistent user-interface environ ment that is powerful but simple A display must provide clear and concise communica- *Rotation allows users to orient maps to better suit tion between the user and the system application.For their individual needs. the ease of user operation,the primary goals of any dis Navigation beacons are windows within a one-line play design must be to accomplish the following: display that help orient users by pinpointing their Minimize clutter in the display console location from a world-coordinate perspective. Strive for consistency in operational philosophy Viewport arrangement allows the user to arrange Rely on user intuition and recognition,and not and group objects and displays within a viewport April 1994 41