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An interactive computer system was made easier to learn for non-programmers by modifying the on-line HELP and error messages of a system designed primarily for programmers. The modifications included supplementing the existing HELP command with a HELP key, making the content of HELP and error messages more concrete, responding to command synonyms, and more. The systems were evaluated in a between-groups experiment in which office workers with no programming experience were asked to perform a typical office task using one of the unfamiliar interactive computer systems. The results of the experiment supported the inclusion of the modifications. Non-programmers using the modified system completed the computer task in less time, with greater accuracy, and with better resulting attitudes than those who used the system designed primarily for programmers.
Celeste S. Magers (Sat,) studied this question.