Robert | 12.09.2005 @ 12:44 PM
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The NY Times reports that the police force in San Jose, CA, is in somewhat desparate need of some quality interaction design. According to the article:

"Since June, the police department has been using a new mobile dispatch system that includes a Windows-based touch-screen computer in every patrol car. But officers have said the system is so complex and difficult to use that it is jeopardizing their ability to do their jobs."

As a result:

"'Do you think if you're hunkered down and someone's shooting at you in your car, you're going to be able to sit there and look for Control or Alt or Function?' said Sgt. Don DeMers, president of the San Jose Police Officers' Association, the local union and the most vocal opponent of the new system. 'No, you're going to look for the red button.'"

If your boss ever wonders why interaction design is a necessary part of the software design process, show him or her this article.