Design 2: Faster Without the Keyboard

Designing ERP software for the iPad, part 2:

Be relentless in eliminating keyboard use

Over time we're realized that, for our target user group, properly designed iPad applications don’t need much keyboard entry. In fact we have found that a tablet using "non keyboard” entry techniques is faster than a workstation using old-fashioned keyboard entry.

Our target group of users don't need the keyboard because they don't generally do data entry...they are more likely to be supervisors or managers "on the go" in their facility.

For example:

HR Data Entry Clerk

• Enters large volumes of employee data
• Sits at desk most of day
• Optimal system: Workstation/Keyboard

HR Department Manager

• Selects options from pull-down lists, reads emails
• Walks around most of day (to interview candidates or talk to managers)
• Optimal system: iPad

Finally it should be repeated that the lack of a keyboard on a tablet computer is not a flaw. Keyboards are essentially useless on the tablet form factor. This is why Apple computer chose, years ago, to bet on a touchscreen interface, and why most of the older, industrial tablets (used in healthcare, shipping, etc) are pen-based, and also why future tablet computers, we predict, will de-emphasize keyboard use, even if they include a physical keyboard to satisfy user demand.