HCL

Content: 
The HCL design I would like to discuss is of those credit/debit card machines at the stores. We have all used them, and it's something that affects are everyday life. I am going to copy Debbie's format and discuss pros and cons of usability, universality, and usefulness.

Usability:
-Pros: To me it is usable, I can usually find the important buttons in the machine without trouble.  The machines have a diagram to show you how to slide your card.  They also have a pen attached to it as well that make is possible to sign your name. 

-Cons: There is not a standard machine. It seems as if every store has a different machine, and the buttons are in different places and sometimes they are too small. 

Universality:
-Pros: The machine itself is small enough to fit anywhere in the cashier.

-Cons: As mentioned before there is many different machines and some are better than others.  I especially dislike the machines that have the card slide slot on the right side of the machine.  I am lefty, so I find myself having to twist my arm in a very awkward position just to slide the card through.  Some of the machines have the pen attached again to the right side, making hard for a lefty to sign. 

Usefulness:
-Pros: Its a useful little machine, it gives me the liberty of not having to carry cash everywhere I go.  It reads the magnetic strip on the card and  I pay for my product, there is no need of counting change or taking the time to write a check. It is also a very convenient way to get cash when you are traveling and you do not want to pay for the ATM fees.

-Cons:  It does not help my bank account. 
Posted by P.Ortiz