Alternative Task Bar - A Usability Study

Jordan Cote, University of Connecticut

Document Type Article

Abstract

An alternate approach to the task bar is proposed, one which makes use of modern computers' graphical abilities. This was accomplished with OpenGL, which is typically used in 3D scene generation. The application was integrated into the Desktop Environment in a novel way, in order to produce an arbitrary shaped window. The application was presented to survey participants, who were asked questions to reveal the feasibility of this type of task bar. Responses were positive, which encourages further development.