Usability 101

What is usability? You’d probably get a different answer for each person you ask (even among experts, they all describe it differently) but put quite simply, it’s the idea that things we create, whether tangible or not, should be easy to use. It’s that simple.

For example,

• You should be able to visit a web site and get what you need without getting lost.
• You should be able to use the cool features on a car without pulling out the owners’ manual.
• You should be able to buy a book online and feel confident it will arrive.
• You should be able to change the line on your weed whacker without swearing.

For more information about what usability is and what it means to be a usability professional, please visit the Usability Resources page of the Usability Professionals’ Association Site.

Usability Professionals' Association of Iowa © 2008