Imagining natural online interactions
The use of computers for online shopping or to obtain information about entertainment events has been possible for many years. However, limited computer access does not favour the spread of the method. In addition, the main language for information exchange is English, which further deters potential users. Project IMAGINE, was undertaken with the goal to allow such transactions to take place using mobile phones, in the users native language, using voice commands. This provides a handy tool, removing the handicaps of the traditional online computer system. Through the project, four prototype applications have been developed. An RNIB On-line shop has been developed which uses a graphical interface. Potential purchases are viewed and can be ordered online, in English. This provides an alternative to the traditional paper catalogues, and the ease of access could well remove the need for these traditional catalogues altogether. The project has also resulted in the development of city guides for 54 Spanish and 12 French cities, accessed through VIAPOLIS.com. This gives information on entertainment, leisure and shopping facilities in the city, in Spanish. The IMAGINE website has been created which can be accessed by voice commands in English, and by written commands in English, Spanish and German. This application can be adapted to give access to similar sites in written natural language by means of the IMAGINE dummy application which contains all the relevant information necessary for adapting the system to suit user needs.
