Course 38: Selecting UCD Methods that Maximize Benefits and Minimize Project Risks -
CourseContribution & Benefit: Participants will learn how, with the support of an online tool, they can select user-centered methods that are most effective in reducing risk and maximizing cost benefits in a particular project.
Abstract » The problem with previous approaches to the selection of UCD methods is that they start with the method, rather than the purpose for which the method is used. The tool uses the detailed set of human centered activities in ISO TS 18152 as a basis for prioritizing human centered design activities and identifying the types of methods to use. It then uses criteria based on ISO TR 16982 to identify which method is most appropriate. Creating a tool has made it practical to apply the comprehensive but complex principles in these standards.
The course will explain the process, supported by the Usability Planner tool:
1. Identify the human centered design activities that are relevant for a particular project.
2. Select from a checklist the objectives and constraints associated with the project, including the importance of usability, the budget, timescales, skills available and the user and task characteristics.
3. Optionally prioritize the human centered design activities, based on an assessment of either the estimated cost benefits, or the importance of reducing project risk.
4. The tool will then recommend the most appropriate methods for each activity, in a prioritized list of activities. Further information is provided about each method, including links to the Usability Body of Knowledge.
Audience
• Usability specialists and project managers who need to justify UCD activities, or who want to broaden the range of methods that they use, or who want advice on which methods to use in a new situation.
• Educators and trainers who help students decide which methods to use.
• Anyone who is interested in a more systematic approach to user-centered design.
Some familiarity with usability and user centered design is assumed, but no specific prior knowledge is needed.
Usability Planner is available at http://www.usabilityplanner.org/