Specifications

MIL-STD-1472E
5.15 User-computer interface,
5.15.1 GeneraL Computer programs and equipment interfaces shall provide a functional
interface between the system for which they are designed and users (operators/maintainers) of that
system. This interface shall optimize compatibility with personnel and shall rninimk conditions
which can degrade human performance or contribute to human emor,
5.15.1.1 Standard procedures. Users shall be provided standard procedures for similar,
logically related transactions.
5.15.1.2 Comrmter response Every input by a user shall consistently produce some perceptible
response
output from the computer.
5.15.1.3 On-line ~uidance. Users shall be provided on-line data and command indices, and
dictionaries, to guide selection and composition for data and command entries. Definitions of
allowable options, system capabilities, procedures, and ranges of values shall be displayable at the
user’s request.
5.15.1.4 System status. Users shall be provided information at all times on system status
regarding operational modes, availability, and loads, either automatically or by request.
5.15.1.5 Log-on procedures In applications where users must log-onto the system, log-on
shall be a separate procedure that must be completed before a user is nxpired to select among any
operational options.
5.15 .1.5.1 Automatic lo~mn display. Appropriate prompts for log-on should be automatically
displayed on the user’s teminal with no special action required other than turning on the teminal.
5.15 .1.5.2 Lxxz-on-feedback. Users shall be provided feedback relevant to the log-on procedure
that indicates the status of the inputs.
5.15.1.5.3 k -on
dclaY. If a user cannot log-onto a system a prompt should be provided to
explain the reason for this inability. Log-on processes should require minimum input from the user
consistent with the requirements prohibiting illegal entry.
5.15.1.6 Lcmdf mocedures When a user signals for system log-off, or application exit or
shutdown, the system should check pending transactions to determine if data loss seems probable. if
so, the computer should prompt for confirmation before the log-off command is executed.
5.15.1.7 Commter failure. If a partial hardwardsoftwme faiitue occurs, the program should
allow ftx orderly shutdown and establishment of a check-point so restoration can be accomplished
without loss of computing performed to date.
5.15.1.8 Interaction. Where two or more users must have simultaneous read access to the
computer program or data processing results horn multiple personnei equipment interfaces, the
operation by one person shail not interfere with the operations of another person unless mission
survival may be contingent upon pre-emption. Provisions shall be made so that the pre-empted user
can resume operations at the point of interference without mfmrnation loss.
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