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WHAT IS USABILITY?
Within the standard definition (ISO 9241-11), usability is described as "the extent to which a product
can be used by specified users to achieve specified goals with effectiveness, efficiency and
satisfaction in a specified context of use". For websites and software products, this can incorporate considerations such as:
- Is the website or software easy to learn?
- Does it handle errors well?
- Is it easy to navigate?
- Does it contain relevant content?
- Is it aesthetically pleasing?
A usable website or software product is transparent and unambiguous, with the results of each user activity or action being made clear. It is easily understood, efficient to use, and fit for its intended purpose. It allows the user to get the job done without confusion, errors
or misunderstanding.
Websites and software products which demonstrate a high level of usability increase productivity, save time, and engender confidence and trust.
In addition to being easy to use, a website or software product must also be attractive and compelling to the user. The objectives and motivations of each specified target audience can be very different. Thus it is advisable that websites or software products are designed with the desires, requirements and expectations of their particular users as a priority. The most effective means of achieving this is by placing the user at the centre of the design process, whilst simultaneously ensuring that the core objectives of the business or organisation that owns the website or software product are delivered.
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