Articles

Articles

The Benefits of Viewing User Tests

The benefits of user testing have long been established. It is still important however to try and maximise these benefits. One way in which this can be done is by viewing the user test yourself.

The Experience is Key

It is important to remember that the experience a person has using a product or service is every bit as important as that product or services usability.

The Advantages and Limitations of Focus Groups in the Design Process

Focus groups are a great way to collect information from several people very quickly and cost effectively. They are mainly used to gauge people’s reactions and feelings to items, however when used appropriately they can also be used as part of user requirements gathering.

Five Rules For Better Bank Websites

Internet banking is here to stay and the major banks are all busy figuring out how to expand their business online. Online banking is all about convenience and functionality but what about the bank’s public website? It is often a struggle to achieve the right balance between information and product sales, between user functionality and marketing requirements.

Back To Basics: How Poor Usability Effects Accessibility

In recent user testing with a range of participants including Visually Impaired (VIP) and Blind users we found that the majority of problems were common across all groups. However the effect of poor usability is more severe for users with visual disabilities. Surprisingly all of the issues are very familiar and are easy to fix so we thought we’d revisit some of the basics of accessible web design.

Webpage Layout: Right Hand Side Blindness

In several recent websites we have user tested, the site designers have placed important task critical links and information on the right hand side (RHS) of three column page layouts. The user testing was conclusive, users ignore any information presented on the RHS. We think this is a similar effect to the well documented banner blindness. It is essential to ensure that import links or information is not positioned on the RHS as they will surely be ignored.

Introduction to User Centred Design Process

User Centred Design (UCD) is an approach to design where the end user is placed at the heart of the design and development process. It could even be described as a ‘Design Philosophy’. Knowing who your users are, what they want and if your system is fulfilling their needs is central to UCD.

Challenges For eGovernment

In the same way that successful eCommerce companies have had to get to know their users - not just through focus groups but by involving them in design and development of products, services and interfaces - Government must get to know it's customers.

Providing 'Skip Links'

Accessible does not always mean usable. Here are a few pointers on how to make accessible sites that are truly usable.

Accessibility Arguments Revisited

In the course of our work for the National Disability Authority over the last year we've talked to a wide variety groups and individuals who have an interest in accessibility and as a result of their input, our approach has shifted a little. Here's what we found out.