Book excerpt: The perspectives and techniques used in human-computer interaction design, practice and research are broadening. This book looks at emerging approaches which are likely to contribute to the discipline in near future. The emphasis is on the social, cognitive, emotional, creative and active dimensions of the human actor. The underlying idea is that human character rather than technology should determine the nature of interaction. The concept of "interaction design" covers this broader range of concerns relevant to enabling quality design. Each chapter emphasizes alternative perspectives on interaction and new concepts to help researchers and practitioners relate to alternative design approaches and opportunities. Many of these new elements can be found to be successful and established in other fields, such as information systems development and industrial design. This volume will be of considerable value to those seeking innovative and developing perspectives upon both designing and ensuring effective interaction between humans and technology.