Spreading the Word: Introducing Usability Evaluation on an International Scale

Abstract

A method of performing comparative usability evaluation was developed at PC Magazine UK and subsequently transferred to the USA — and later to Germany and France. As the method developed in different countries, many lessons were learnt about the importance of presenting usability data, the purpose of a usability report, the objectives of those who are reading it and the merits of different styles of conducting and analysing a test. Distinct international attributes are less important than global “human” factors in successfully conveying a message about a complex subject such as usability, but nonetheless, different countries have different markets, expectations and needs. These things can represent difficulties, but they can also be made to work in favour of the usability function.