Human-system Interface Style Guide for ACORN Control System

TL;DR

This style guide establishes a consistent visual and interaction framework for human system interfaces in Fermilab's accelerator control system, enhancing usability, maintainability, and long-term coherence.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive, living set of guidelines for HSI design in a complex, multi-contributor environment, ensuring interface consistency and ease of updates.

Findings

Enhances interface consistency across the Fermilab accelerator complex.

Reduces training burden and improves usability for operators.

Supports long-term maintainability and scalability of control systems.

Abstract

The purpose of this style guide is to provide a clear, consistent framework for the design and development of human system interfaces (HSIs) used throughout the Fermilab accelerator complex. It establishes a shared visual and interaction foundation to ensure that interfaces remain intuitive, effective, and cohesive, regardless of when or by whom they are developed. By adhering to these guidelines, developers can avoid introducing unnecessary deviations that compromise usability or increase system training burden. This consistency is especially critical in long-term, multi-contributor projects where interface continuity and maintainability are paramount. This document serves as a practical reference for all HSI development activities related to the accelerator control environment. While the guidance provided is comprehensive, it is not exhaustive of every potential design scenario. As such, the style guide is intended to function as a living document, subject to regular review and revision. Updates will be made at least annually to incorporate emerging best practices, operational feedback, and evolving system needs. Areas where detailed guidance is still under development are clearly indicated in gray throughout the document and will be addressed in future revisions according to project priorities.