Week 5 Reading Response

Chapter 8 and 9 - Usability Testing

Everyone has their own thoughts, opinions, and experiences with the web, and this can cause a real argument between what is right and wrong about web design. The truth is that there is no average user and therefor the rules of engagement are still very open. The one thing that a good website has, is a high level of usability. This means that even if the website isnt the most dynamic and amazing, users will be more than happy with a great sense of organization and navigation. Designers, developers, and programmers all have different opinions about how websites should look and function, but its not really about them, its about the users. In order to create the best environment for the user testing can be done throughout the development process.

There are several ways to perform usability tests on a website, but the two most common are using focus groups and physical testing. Focus groups are best used in the beginning stages of a website development in order to sample initial user opinions. Then as the development progresses to the final stages, physical usability testing can be performed by selected users in order to ensure the best organization and navigation. Some of the most common problems that developers see in their usability testing are: lack of concept, unclear wording, and confusing or busy navigation.

Here are some websites that talk further about these topics:
25 Point Usability Checklist
Smashing Magazine - Usability Tips
Website Standards Association - Usability Standards