University help! I-Drive (and similar) project

[Wyvern]

Hello all,

As you know, I'm a not-very-mature student and as many of you are aware, one of my areas of study this term is human-computer interaction (HCI).

I've just been set my project, and after discussing ideas with my lecturer, I've been given the go-ahead to research integrated computerised car control systems such as BMW's i-Drive.

I know that BMW are not the only people doing these kind of control systems, but that is the most well known, so you know what I'm after.

What I want is first hand reports of using these integrated control systems, both the good and the bad. Does anyone here either have a car with such a system or know anyone who does who would be willing to answer a few questions about it for me?

All helpful suggestions welcome!

[Deleted]

The Mercedes has a menu system which is good but only you know what you are looking for with the assistance of the instruction book. (Is this the kind of thing you meant?)

[Wyvern]

That's exactly it. Mercedes COMAND seems to be a little bit less frustrating than iDrive. I really need to know what makes it good, what makes it bad, what makes you want to rip it out of the car etc. Ideas about what users actually WANT from an interface is a really important element of what I'm doing.

Thank you

[Deleted]

I'll get the handbook and have a look for you I'm sure the car won't need it for an evening:D