Designing Industrial Interfaces for Digitally and Functionally Illiterate Users: A Case Study in a Manufacturing Environment
Felipe Dias Abrahão, Leandro Durães, Arthur Pedro Fortes Silva, Vanessa Tavares de Oliveira Barros, Rodolfo Miranda de Barros
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15439/2026F3200
Citation: Felipe Dias Abrahão, Leandro Durães, Arthur Pedro Fortes Silva, Vanessa Tavares de Oliveira Barros, Rodolfo Miranda de Barros (2026). Designing Industrial Interfaces for Digitally and Functionally Illiterate Users: A Case Study in a Manufacturing Environment. In M. Bolanowski, M. Ganzha, M. Grzegorowski, L. Maciaszek, M. Paprzycki, A. Paszkiewicz, D. Ślęzak (eds), Proceedings of the 21st Conference on Computer Science and Intelligence Systems. ACSIS, Vol. 48, pages 1–8.
Abstract. Digital transformation in industrial environments often overlooks a significant portion of the workforce: individuals with low levels of digital and functional literacy. In many manufacturing contexts, especially on the shop floor, workers are expected to interact with complex systems despite having limited prior exposure to digital technologies. This study presents the design and deployment of a new human-machine interface for machine operators in a manufacturing environment. The system replaced a previous solution that did not adequately address usability and accessibility needs. The design focused on supporting users with low digital literacy by emphasizing clarity, simplicity, and visual communication. The interface was developed through a user-centered design process, making use of color, iconography, and spatial organization to guide interactions and minimize cognitive load. Following a habituation period after deployment, a user satisfaction questionnaire was conducted to evaluate the system's impact. Results demonstrate significant improvements in user satisfaction, task efficiency, and perceived ease of use, highlighting the importance of inclusive digital design in industrial settings.
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