Design

Whilst users may be vocal in demanding what they want, they may have more difficulty identifying what they actually need. This can cause particular problems when applications or sites enable users to manipulate the interface directly.

The role of a 'User Champion' is to represent the interests and concerns of the user in all decisions concerning interface design, including graphic look and feel, interaction design, product functionality, and even accompanying materials such as instruction manuals.

Successful globalisation requires tackling a host of both technical and content issues. Back-end systems, translations, cultural modifications, graphics and colours, content and editorial and availability and support.

It is possible that the fundamental conflict between the modes of operation will mean that web-on-television is doomed to failure. But, in the meantime, what can be done to ensure high quality user-experience when viewing the web on TV?

The reality is that although Flash presents many usability issues, it is not inherently unusable. It can be used to create usable websites - but this requires designers to follow strict implementation guidelines.