Using HCI Guidelines to Foster Technological Advancement in Sub-Saharan Africa

In an area that is more commonly known for its political instability, economic stagnancy, and social injustices, technology is trying to get its legs amid the constantly shifting sands. Many of those who have not benefited from the technological advancements are the people living in the area of sub-Saharan Africa (excluding the region of Southern Africa). There are countless obstacles in the way of establishing an information society including: social misgivings, adverse physical conditions, and lack of a sufficient information infrastructure. The technology that is used in the western world and even the Asian areas are poorly suited for the climate of sub-Saharan Africa and modifications to the technology will be expensive and most likely ineffective. Principles from the field of human computer interaction (HCI) can play a key role by aiding in the development of heuristics and guidelines to be used in designing computer systems to help foster acceptance of the technology. Due to the unique circumstances in this region, traditional methodologies require refinement and new approaches to design are needed to ensure the success of a new technology. It is the intent of this paper to review existing HCI heuristics and guidelines and suggest modifications to make the existing heuristics and guidelines compatible with the needs of the average user in sub-Saharan Africa. In addition to reviewing existing HCI heuristics and guidelines, new heuristics and guidelines will be proposed to embody the culture and people of the region.