IB Design Technology 7.2 Usability Notes

The User-Driven Approach: Designing with Users, Not Just for Them

1. Designers truly understand what users need not by guessing but asking.
2. The user-driven approach places the end user at the heart of the design process, ensuring that their needs, preferences, and behaviors shape the final product.
3. This requires active engagement with users at every stage of development.

Why Frequent User Engagement Matters

1. Starting with assumptions about user needs can lead to flawed designs.
2. Engaging with users regularly allows designers to:
   1. Observe how products are used in real-world contexts.
   2. Identify pain points and unmet needs.
   3. Validate design decisions through user feedback.

Evaluation Methods: Testing Usability Objectives

1. Once a prototype is developed, how do designers ensure it meets usability goals?
2. Evaluation methods provide a structured approach to assessing whether a product is effective, satisfying, and easy to use.

Key Evaluation Strategies

1. Usability Testing: Observing users as they interact with the product to identify challenges and areas for improvement.
2. Surveys and Questionnaires: Collecting subjective feedback about user satisfaction and emotional responses.
3. A/B Testing: Comparing two design versions to determine which performs better.
4. Psychological Metrics: Measuring factors like cognitive load, stress levels, or emotional responses during use.

Usability Objectives: What Makes a Product Usable?

1. Usability focuses on creating products that are not only functional but also enjoyable to use.
2. Usability objectives serve as benchmarks for evaluating a product's success in meeting user needs.

Four Key Usability Objectives

1. Usefulness: Does the product solve the user's problem or fulfill their need?
2. Effectiveness: Can users achieve their goals accurately and efficiently?