user interface

The aspects of a computer system or program which can be seen

(or heard or otherwise perceived) by the human user, and the

commands and mechanisms the user uses to control its operation

and input data.

A graphical user interface emphasises the use of pictures

for output and a pointing device such as a mouse for input

and control whereas a command line interface requires the

user to type textual commands and input at a keyboard and

produces a single stream of text as output.

See also user interface copyright.

(1995-02-20)