A structured methodology for comparative evaluation of user interface designs using usability criteria and measures

Abstract

Previous research in software ergonomics has indicated the importance of evaluating the usability of computer user interfaces. This paper presents a quantitative basis for selecting from among multiple alternative interfaces relative to multiple criteria of usability concern. The proposed model consists of two main phases: the prescreening phase and the evaluation phase. The prescreening phase involves expert judgment-based assessment with qualitative criteria. The first phase uses absolute measurement analytic hierarchy process (AHP) to filter possible alternative interfaces to a reasonable subset. The evaluation phase involves user-based assessment such as user testing, with quantitative criteria. The objective of the second phase is to evaluate a subset of alternatives using objective measures and to select the best alternative. A set of criteria and measures for evaluating the usability of computer software designs is presented. The proposed methodology is demonstrated in the interface design of a database system used to analyze trip cases information of nuclear power plant. Relevance to industry There is currently a focus on the usability of interactive computer software. Software developers, interface designers or human factors engineers often confront the task of comparative evaluation among systems, versions or interface designs. The proposed methodology provides practitioners with a structured approach to select the best interface based on usability criteria and measures.