Experts use established heuristics when they assess the usability of a software product. This is a quick and inexpensive way to find out the kind of efforts needed to improve the usability of software.
An usability assessment is suitable for improving existing software when
- The aim is to modernise the software without altering its functionality.
- It is difficult to learn how to use the software.
- There are known problems with the functionality of the software.
- The software is old and the methods of interaction are outdated and unintuitive for today’s users.
Takeaways
- The usability assessment can be carried out independently by an expert, without interviews with end users.
- The assessment can be done in isolation from other development work.
- As a result, the client becomes aware of the problems in the usability of the software and can decide on the measures to take to improve it.
- As a result, the client is aware of how well the software responds to the challenges posed by the usage environment.
