Chapter 1

Usability of Interactive Systems

Activity

Objectives: Overview of design

• Understand users’ needs
• Understand the difference between different level of task performance and their importance to the design
• Understand the importance of reliability and how it relates to trust
• Understand the process of design
• Understand the importance of usability testing
• Understand the importance of designing for universal usability

Directions:

• In groups of 2 or 3, complete the following activity. You can refer to your text if needed
• Write the steps down in order to turn in your work for grading
• We will discuss the results during the next class

Activity:

The goals for requirements analysis in usability requirements are:

• Ascertain the users’ needs.
• Ensure proper reliability.
• Promote appropriate standardization, integration, consistency, and portability.
• Complete projects on schedule and within budget.

For the following consider designing the user interface for a mobile device such as a cell phone:
Page numbers in the text are given for reference.

1. Give one example of a task, and one of a subtask in utilizing a cell phone. Also give an example of an occasional, exceptional or repair task.  (p.13)
2. Give an example on how to ensure reliability.  (p.13)
3. Give an example of standardization. (p.14)
4. Give an example of integration. (p.14)
5. Give an example of consistency (language, design, icons, etc...).  (p.14)

How to measure usability:

Now that you have considered the usability requirements for the cell phone, you need to focus on the design and you need to test your product.

1. Why is it wise to test different designs for your product?
2. Give two examples of users who might use your product.
3. Describe the usability of your cell phone design using each of the usability measures described in the text. (p. 16).
4. Give an example on how you will accommodate a blind person using your cell phone.