UsabilityUsability

By: Sharett Wooten

and

Gwen Payne

•What is Usability

Usability addresses the relationship between tools and their users. In order for a tool to be effective, it must allow intended to accomplish their tasks in the best way possible. The same principle applies to computers, websites, and other software. In order for these system to work, their users must be able to employ them effectively.

Why We Use and Need Why We Use and Need UsabilityUsability

Usability makes browsing web-sites easier and more enjoyable.

Usability makes the difference between performing a task accurately and completely or not, and enjoying the process or being frustrated.

Usability can make the difference between the success and failure of a system.

Software with poor usability can reduce the productivity of the workforce.

What Steps are Involved What Steps are Involved in Usabilityin Usability

Planning the Web-site Collecting data from

the user Developing prototypes Collecting, writing, or

revising content Conducting usability

test

What makes UsabilityWhat makes Usability “Usable”“Usable”

Ease of LearningHow fast can a user who has never

seen or used this interface before use it sufficiently.

Efficiency of UseOnce an experienced user has

learned to use the system, how fast can he/she accomplish task

What make Usability “Usable” What make Usability “Usable” Continued.Continued.

MemorabilityCan a user remember enough to use it

effectively to the next time, or does he/she have to start over.

Error Frequency and SeverityHow often do users make errors while

using the system, how serious are the errors, and how do users recover from the errors.

Subjective SatisfactionHow much does the user like using

the system.

Usability TestingUsability Testing

Testing includes:• One user at a time or two users working together.• Collecting data on the paths users take to do tasks • The errors they make• When and where they are confused or frustrated• Whether they succeed in doing tasks

• How satisfied they are with the experience

Testing ContinuedTesting Continued

Goals of Usability Testing•Uncover any problems that users may encounter, so those problems can be fixed.

What Areas are UsabilityWhat Areas are Usability Products used inProducts used in

Web Commerce Industry Home Ergonomics

Usability and the WebUsability and the Web

Usability is very influential on the web.

Remember to include the following when designing a web page:

The purpose is clear Users can find what they

need with ease Reveal site content

Web Usability ContinuedWeb Usability Continued

Enhance the page with visual design

Limit annoyances such as pop-ups

Make sure that all buttons, links, and directional applications are clear and concise.

Usability in CommerceUsability in Commerce

More business are using usability to improve productivity and customer satisfaction

Commerce ContinuedCommerce Continued Business that employ

Usability include: Fast food restaurants Gateway Banks Schools/Universities

Usability and IndustryUsability and Industry

Industries use usability to increase the production speed of products

Industries ContinuedIndustries Continued Usability products

include: Assembly lines Mechanical operators Heavy equipment

machinery

Usability in the HomeUsability in the Home

People use usability in the home to

make everyday

duties easier and more efficient.

Home Usability ContinuedHome Usability Continued Electrical appliances Cleaning appliances Cooking devices Plumbing facilities

Usability and ErgonomicsUsability and Ergonomics

What is ergonomics? Ergonomics is the study of

human characteristics for the appropriate design of the living and working environment.

The goal of ergonomics is to improve usability standards

Ergonomics ContinuedErgonomics Continued

Researchers do this by studying human:

Capabilities Limitations Motivations Desires

Ergonomics ContinuedErgonomics Continued

There are three levels at which ergonomic knowledge can be used:

Tolerable conditions do not pose known dangers to human life or health

Acceptable conditions are those upon which the people involved can voluntarily agree

Optimal conditions are so well adapted to human characteristics, capabilities, and desires that physical, mental, and social well-being is achieved

How to Improve UsabilityHow to Improve Usability

Present Product Options– This means putting all

options on one page,using plain color names, showing an image for each options in chart.

Improving Usability ContinuedImproving Usability Continued Simple Search

– Sites offer one input box and one button, linking to advanced search instead of featuring it.

Check Out Forms and RegistrationSites ask only for required data and explaining its uses, using clear labels and reasonable sizes.

Questions?????Questions?????

ReferencesReferences www.useit.com www.ergonomics.org www.nsc.org www.usabilityfirst.co

m www.steptwo.com.au www.usability.gov Dr.Kardas’ website