WEB USABILITY

Usability is a term that is referred not exclusively for the web but any other filed where there is a link between the tools and the users.

Usability is generally defined as the ease with which particular a particular tool can be efficiently used by a particular group of users.

In terms of web development, usability can be defined as: “the effectiveness, efficiency, and satisfaction with which specified users can achieve specified goals in a particular environment.”

In other words, web usability is the ease that users experience while navigating interfaces, locating information and acquiring knowledge.

Importance of web usability

There are two principles of web usability:

Visitors pay heed only to their requirements: Internet users are very particular. They search and scroll the web for the information that they are really interested in. If they are unable to find the relevant information, they will leave the site.

Visitors are impatient: Visitors want an easy access to relevant information. If they cannot quickly find what they are looking for, they will leave your site.

In other words, the visitors will leave unless attention is paid to website’s usability depriving the site from the desired business and profits.

Effect of web usability

The usability factor improves different aspects of a website:

Competent: Enable visitors to find what they need.
Easy to use: Enable visitors to find things smoothly.
Fast service: Provide visitors with fast access to the website.
Information-centric: Provide visitors with relevant information.

What makes a web site usable?

Usability can be assessed by making different people test your website and then check their levels of complaints.

Other ways to increase web usability

Systematic organization of information
Consistent presentation of data
Highlight the navigation elements