Usability is a term used to define the ease with which people use a tool or even an object to perform a task.
In the software environment, systems are the tools used for task execution by the user, and in usability we find the moment of dialogue between the user and the software interface.
Usability and its application
Usability is the system’s ability to make the user successful in executing their tasks. Easy learning, efficient use, and error management are fundamental points for the user to perceive good usability.
In the development of a new custom software for which there are already previous experiences, the pursuit of excellence in usability becomes easier. However, when this experience is nonexistent or even poorly advanced, the work becomes more difficult and the search for good usability must be preceded by efficient opinion research, research in which often the user is not willing to provide or even something clear enough to be easily transmitted by them.
Regardless of this, if the user does not feel clarity and ease of use, they simply will no longer use it or will even create obstacles to the use of the software and will likely look for another provider that meets their needs. Therefore, it is important to keep in mind that usability is a guiding element in the software development process and must be treated with relevance.
Given the large volume of information available today, usability is increasingly being treated by various companies as a strategic point to win new consumers/clients, because the fact is: If a system is complicated for the user to use, why does the system exist?
UI and UX in software construction
UI (User Interface) and UX (User Experience) professionals come into play for the development of a system focused on the user’s needs. It is necessary to keep in mind that the development of a system is not for the programmer or analyst to use, but rather to make users’ tasks more agile and efficient; that is what software companies are hired for.
Remember this when creating new software!
Sources:
Ergonomia e Usabilidade. Conhecimentos, métodos e aplicações. (Authors: Walter Cybis, Adriana Holtz Betiol, Richard Faust);
Don’t Make Me Think (Author: Steve Krug)
