The Usability Expert Jakob Nielsen says: “On the Web, usability is a necessary condition for survival. If a web site is difficult to use, people leave. If the homepage fails to clearly state what a company offers and what users can do on the site, people leave. If users get lost on a web site, they leave. If a web site’s information is hard to read or doesn’t answer users’ key questions, they leave. Note a pattern here? There’s no such thing as a user reading a web site manual or otherwise spending much time trying to figure out an interface. There are plenty of other web sites available; leaving is the first line of defense when users encounter a difficulty.” –
Full Story: http://www.useit.com/alertbox/20030825.html
Is your web site usable?
There are several definitions for usability, but basically products which have the following 6 characteristics, can be considered as usable.
- Quick and easy to learn
- Efficient to use
- Allows rapid recovery from errors
- Easy to remember
- Using is enjoyable
- Aesthetically pleasing
Does your product have the above characteristics?
User and Provider benefits:
Usability increases benefits for both parties: the User and the web site Provider.
Users benefits:
- Users are satisfied, instead of being frustrated when interacting over the web site.
- They achieve their goals effectively and efficiently.
- They cultivate confidence and trust in the product.
In other words, satisfied users, become loyal, going on using the web site, and also recommend to others.
Providers benefits:
- Reduced development time and costs.
- Reduced support costs.
- Reduced user errors.
- Reduced training time and costs.
- Return on Investment.
Usability Can Save Your Company!
John S. Rhodes, Editor and Webmaster at WebWorldPro says: “Data indicate that usability offers a better return on investment than almost any other business action. When times get rough, usability shines. The benefits are huge. Usability is a weapon that can save you money, improve your competitive position, and improve customer loyalty. Now is the time to invest in the research.” –
Full Story: http://webword.com/moving/savecompany.html
After all, making your web site usable, you will make your visitors and your wallet more comfortable and happier!