Love the web

Usability Uncovered

This series of articles starts with what lies behind the science of website usability and then explores some of the basic principles and techniques that can be applied to website design. Also see Why has usability has become such a big player in contemporary website design? and How can we help users find the information they are looking for? Some basic steps to good web design.

What is usability?

"Usability really just means making sure that something works well: that a person of average (or even below average) ability and experience can use the thing - whether it's a Web site, a fighter jet, or a revolving door - for its intended purpose without getting hopelessly frustrated." - Steve Krug, Don't Make Me Think, 2000, p. 5

If you've ever been completely frustrated by a website, pored over every pixel looking for the seemingly obvious, yelled at your screen or gone elsewhere in disgust, you've probably been the victim of poor design. Sometimes you think the problem has been with you, but don't be fooled! In the vast majority of cases the problem lies with the interface, and if you're having problems its likely thousands of others are too.