Streamlined HMIs do more with less

The phrase “less is more” has been a major part of human-machine interface (HMI) designs for several years as developers traded multiple knobs and buttons for cleaner input techniques. However, the push to simplify the control's look and feel is offset by the need to let drivers and operators manage more things, often with redundant input techniques.

The growing number of electronic features and functions comes as vehicle buyers demand controls that can be learned quickly. This need to manage more complex tasks without much training marks a major change from the era when operators slowly learned how to maneuver mechanical controls. New designs will need to further simplify the vehicle environments designed to provide more digital functionality.