SWiM: A Simple Window Mover

TL;DR

SWiM is a simple, intuitive interface for moving application windows across multiple screens in a 3D environment, designed to be as easy to learn and use as traditional 2D interfaces.

Contribution

This paper introduces SWiM, a novel window-moving interface for multi-display 3D environments, based on user testing and a map-like selection method.

Findings

Users found SWiM intuitive without instructions

SWiM is as easy to learn as traditional interfaces

The interface effectively balances simplicity and functionality

Abstract

As computers become more ubiquitous, traditional two-dimensional interfaces must be replaced with interfaces based on a three-dimensional metaphor. However, these interfaces must still be as simple and functional as their two-dimensional predecessors. This paper introduces SWiM, a new interface for moving application windows between various screens, such as wall displays, laptop monitors, and desktop displays, in a three-dimensional physical environment. SWiM was designed based on the results of initial "paper and pencil" user tests of three possible interfaces. The results of these tests led to a map-like interface where users select the destination display for their application from various icons. If the destination is a mobile display it is not displayed on the map. Instead users can select the screen's name from a list of all possible destination displays. User testing of SWiM was conducted to discover whether it is easy to learn and use. Users that were asked to use SWiM without any instructions found the interface as intuitive to use as users who were given a demonstration. The results show that SWiM combines simplicity and functionality to create an interface that is easy to learn and easy to use.