Instant messaging, older adults and interface metaphor

An investigation has been conducted into the use of Instant Messaging (IM) by older computer novices, comparing different visual metaphors in the user interface. The objective was to try to create a more usable and acceptable instant messaging solution for older adults, amongst whom instant messaging is not currently widely adopted. Two user interfaces, a traditional one and an experimental alternative based on a café scene, were designed for the study. These were compared in use by older computer novices through measurement and participant interview. Outcomes indicated that the alternative metaphor interface performed better overall than the traditional one and that the majority of the participants would prefer the alternative metaphor for future use.