The article discusses the concept of direct manipulation in interactive systems, emphasizing its user-friendly and intuitive nature. Direct manipulation allows users to interact with visible objects, making tasks more satisfying and efficient. The author, Ben Shneiderman, highlights several key features that contribute to the success of direct manipulation systems, including visibility of the object of interest, rapid and reversible actions, and the use of physical actions (like mouse clicks or joystick movements) instead of complex command syntax. Shneiderman provides examples of direct manipulation systems, such as display editors, which offer full-page views of text, immediate feedback on actions, and natural cursor movements. He also discusses the advantages of spatial data management systems, video games, and computer-aided design/manufacturing tools. These systems leverage direct manipulation principles to enhance user experience and performance. The article explores the psychological and cognitive aspects of direct manipulation, drawing on theories of problem-solving and learning. It suggests that visual representations and physical actions are more effective for learning and performance, and that direct manipulation can facilitate problem-solving by providing a clear and intuitive interface. However, the article also addresses challenges and limitations of direct manipulation, such as the need for users to learn the meaning of graphic representations and the potential for misleading or confusing displays. Shneiderman emphasizes the importance of careful design and testing to ensure the effectiveness and user-friendliness of these systems. Finally, the article outlines potential applications of direct manipulation in various domains, including personal address lists, checkbook management, and educational tools. It concludes by highlighting the promising future of direct manipulation in interactive systems, suggesting that it can reduce learning time, speed up performance, and increase user satisfaction.The article discusses the concept of direct manipulation in interactive systems, emphasizing its user-friendly and intuitive nature. Direct manipulation allows users to interact with visible objects, making tasks more satisfying and efficient. The author, Ben Shneiderman, highlights several key features that contribute to the success of direct manipulation systems, including visibility of the object of interest, rapid and reversible actions, and the use of physical actions (like mouse clicks or joystick movements) instead of complex command syntax. Shneiderman provides examples of direct manipulation systems, such as display editors, which offer full-page views of text, immediate feedback on actions, and natural cursor movements. He also discusses the advantages of spatial data management systems, video games, and computer-aided design/manufacturing tools. These systems leverage direct manipulation principles to enhance user experience and performance. The article explores the psychological and cognitive aspects of direct manipulation, drawing on theories of problem-solving and learning. It suggests that visual representations and physical actions are more effective for learning and performance, and that direct manipulation can facilitate problem-solving by providing a clear and intuitive interface. However, the article also addresses challenges and limitations of direct manipulation, such as the need for users to learn the meaning of graphic representations and the potential for misleading or confusing displays. Shneiderman emphasizes the importance of careful design and testing to ensure the effectiveness and user-friendliness of these systems. Finally, the article outlines potential applications of direct manipulation in various domains, including personal address lists, checkbook management, and educational tools. It concludes by highlighting the promising future of direct manipulation in interactive systems, suggesting that it can reduce learning time, speed up performance, and increase user satisfaction.