Automatic Digitization of Hand Drawn User Interfaces

Abstract

User interface designing is an important aspect of any software project and probably the most awaited stage for any customer because this stage provides customers with the first look and feel of their software. Although the technical aspects and working of the software are more important but from the view point of customers, effective and usable interfaces play a significant role. In most cases, the interaction between the project team and customer(s) involves brainstorming where the client explains the requirements either verbally or through hand-drawn sketches of the screens and interfaces they have in mind. In some cases, the client may not be able to express fully what type of interface is required and the problem is not highlighted until a prototype system is presented to the client. If a user interface prototype could be quickly compiled from the hand-drawn sketches by the client, it could be immediately presented for feedback and any possible changes. Naturally, developing user interfaces in such meetings is not a feasible solution as it is likely to consume significant time. However, if an automated system could be developed that takes the hand-drawn sketches of client as input and automatically generates a prototype user interface, the client can instantly provide comments and suggest modifications as desired. Therefore the proposed project will allow non-technical personnel to develop a mock interface allowing customers a peek into the look and feel of the final product. Such a system will also help the requirement analysts to easily understand and correctly gather the software requirements which will lead to efficient development of software with ease. Having automated systems which could convert these hand-drawn sketches to digital form could result in significant cost saving in terms of time and efforts.