Direct manipulation and indirect manipulation are two different interaction styles that are used in human-computer interaction (HCI).
Direct manipulation is an interaction style that allows users to interact with a computer system by directly manipulating objects on the screen. This is done by using a pointing device, such as a mouse or a touchscreen, to select, move, or resize objects. Direct manipulation is often seen as being more intuitive and easier to learn than other interaction styles.
Indirect manipulation is an interaction style that allows users to interact with a computer system by issuing commands to the system. This is done by using a keyboard, a mouse, or a touchscreen to select commands from a menu or to type in text. Indirect manipulation is often seen as being more powerful and flexible than direct manipulation.
Here is a table that compares and contrasts direct manipulation and indirect manipulation:
Which interaction style is better?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The best interaction style for a particular task will depend on the specific needs of the user and the capabilities of the computer system.
In general, direct manipulation is a good choice for tasks that are simple and straightforward. Indirect manipulation is a good choice for tasks that are complex or require a lot of precision.
Ultimately, the best way to decide which interaction style is right for you is to try both and see which one you prefer.