Usability Challenges Research Articles

Strategic technological innovation through ChatMu: transforming information accessibility in Muhammadiyah

This study examines the effectiveness of the ChatMu application in improving access to information for members of Muhammadiyah, a prominent socio-religious organization. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative analyses to evaluate the application’s performance, usability, and user satisfaction. Findings reveal that ChatMu significantly enhances the accessibility and accuracy of Muhammadiyah-related information, highlighting its potential as an innovative tool for addressing community-specific information needs. However, several usability challenges were identified, including navigation inefficiencies and inconsistencies in content delivery. These limitations suggest the need for further refinement to optimize user experience and functionality. Despite these issues, ChatMu demonstrates strong capabilities in providing relevant and reliable information, fostering digital literacy, and supporting information dissemination within the Muhammadiyah community. The study concludes that ChatMu represents a promising application of chatbot technology in empowering communities through improved access to knowledge. Future development efforts should focus on comprehensive usability testing, maintaining information relevance, and incorporating advanced interactive features to enhance engagement. With continuous improvements, ChatMu has the potential to become an effective medium for advancing literacy and knowledge-sharing in the Muhammadiyah community.

Evaluating the Biomechanical Effects and Real-World Usability of a Novel Ankle Exo for Runners.

Achilles tendon overuse injuries are common for long-distance runners. Ankle exos (exoskeletons and exosuits) are wearable devices that can reduce Achilles tendon loading and could potentially aid in the rehabilitation or prevention of these injuries by helping to mitigate and control tissue loading. However, most ankle exos are confined to controlled lab testing and are not practical to use in real-world running. Here, we present the design of an unpowered ankle exo aimed at reducing the load on the Achilles tendon during running while also overcoming key usability challenges for runners outside the lab. We fabricated a 500-gram ankle exo prototype that attaches to the outside of a running shoe. We then evaluated the reliability, acceptability, transparency during swing phase, and offloading assistance provided during treadmill and outdoor running tests. We found that the exo prototype reliably assisted 95-99% of running steps during indoor and outdoor tests, was deemed acceptable by more than 80% of runners in terms of comfort and feel, and did not impede natural ankle dorsiflexion during leg swing for 86% of runners. During indoor tests, the exo reduced Achilles tendon loads for most participants during running; however, reductions varied considerably, between near zero and 12%, depending on the participant, condition (speed and slope) and the precise tendon load metric used. This next-generation ankle exo concept could open new possibilities for longitudinal and real-world research on runners, or when transitioning into the return-to-sport phase after an Achilles tendon injury.

Challenges of usability and access to a digital tool in a telerehabilitation program for COVID- 19 survivors in a developing country

Objective: The outbreak of COVID-19 brought many challenges for health system, including for rehabilitation facilities. To supply the high amount of patients with disabilities and functional impairments, telerehabilitation might be a feasible strategy. The aim of this prospective clinical trial is to present a practical experience of a 3-month physical telerehabilitation program, for post COVID-19 patients from a public health system, after hospital discharge. Method: The sample was recruited from a list of 407 patients, to be enrolled up to eight weeks after discharge. Primary outcome measures: Two-minute step test (2MST), Time to Five repetition in the Sit-To-Stand Test, EuroQol (EQ5D). This virtual-wise program consisted of customized videos for respiratory and functional exercises, on a 3-times a week basis. Results: Out of 407 patients, only 19 were enrolled, and 14 completed the program. Main sample losses were due to lack of phone contact, internet and technological constraints and in-person return to work needs. Participants mean age was 56 ± 16.8, 57.9% men; 12 (63.2%) lost weight during hospitalization. Patients increased the 2MST (p= 0.004), a reduction in the five repetitions in the sit and stand test (p= 0.002) and health status score (p= 0.007). Conclusion: Telerehabilitation is a promising option for the treatment of post-discharge COVID-19, physically disabled patients. However, socioeconomical barriers must be taken into account during the development of remote programs for rehabilitation, in order to ensure population access, especially to unequal countries.

USING FACIAL EXPRESSIONS FOR CUSTOM ACTIONS: DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF A HANDS-FREE INTERACTION METHOD

This study explores a novel facial expression-based interaction method designed to provide an accessible and hands-free alternative for performing precision tasks. Traditional input devices, such as keyboards and mice, are often unsuitable for individuals with limited mobility or for hands-free environments. The proposed system leverages standard computer hardware and machine learning-based facial landmark detection to map customizable facial expressions to specific actions, making it a low-cost and adaptable solution. This study evaluates the usability, learnability, and potential applications of this interaction method through a task-based user study. Sixteen participants aged 19–34 completed a series of five trials, performing the same color and number-matching task on an interactive grid. This approach allowed the evaluation of the learning curve by analyzing how participants improved their skills and reduced task completion times with each subsequent trial. Participants also provided feedback on challenging facial expressions to identify usability challenges. The evaluation focused on task completion time, participant-reported challenging actions, and qualitative feedback to assess system usability, user adaptability, and potential applications. The results indicate a clear learning curve, with participants improving task completion times over repeated trials. Feedback highlighted the potential of this interaction method for assistive technologies, gamified facial exercises, and as a supplementary input tool, while also identifying challenges such as facial fatigue and action complexity. The findings demonstrate the system's promise as an accessible and adaptable alternative interaction method, with opportunities for future refinement and broader application.

Usability and optimization of online apps in user's context.

The OptiFlow framework introduces a novel approach for enhancing usability evaluation and optimization known as OptiFlow. This framework combines heuristic evaluation with a web-based platform to provide a comprehensive method for assessing and optimizing user experiences in online applications. The architecture of OptiFlow incorporates key components, including the user, website, web service, and library, enabling seamless interaction and data exchange. A set of 240 usability guidelines, derived from a multidisciplinary expert collaboration, are systematically categorized into 15 usability categories, aligned with established design principles. Guidelines within OptiFlow are assigned implementation levels: "Green" for easily implementable guidelines, "Amber" for moderately complex ones, and "Red" for highly complex guidelines. These levels prioritize tasks based on complexity and feasibility. The framework's integration of guidelines into a structured SQL database simplifies implementation challenges, and the "execute" function systematically assesses website adherence to guidelines, resulting in True, False, or Null outcomes. Usability assessment outcomes are presented through categorized and prioritized data views for each implementation level, allowing stakeholders to address high-priority concerns efficiently. The OptiFlow framework represents an innovative approach to usability evaluation, fostering enriched user experiences and finely tuned digital interfaces. Future advancements may include additional rule types and the integration of advanced technologies for tackling intricate usability challenges. Ultimately, OptiFlow paves the way for proactive user experience enhancement and digital interface optimization in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

Consumer views of functional electrical stimulation and robotic exoskeleton in SCI rehabilitation: A mini review.

Functional electrical stimulation (FES) and robotic exoskeletons represent emerging technologies with significant potential for restoring critical physical functions such as standing and walking-functions that are most susceptible after spinal cord injury (SCI). However, the further development and successful integration of these technologies into clinical practice and daily life require a deep understanding of consumer perspectives. This review synthesizes consumer perspectives from a diverse range of technology stakeholders, including medical service providers, researchers, and persons affected by SCI-those living with SCI and their caregivers. By capturing this diverse range of perspectives, the review aims to describe the real-world implications, challenges, and expectations associated with FES and robotic exoskeleton technologies. Relevant literature was primarily identified through a search in EBSCO, SCOPUS, and Web of Science. The authors supplemented the search by reviewing reference lists including appropriate articles identified by the authors. The PICO question guiding this process was defined as P (persons with SCI and caregivers, researchers, clinicians, and developers), I (use of FES or robotic exoskeletons), C (technology users compared to non-users), and O (stakeholder perspectives and experiences). Each identified article underwent a thorough appraisal, after which findings were summarized to present consumers' viewpoints on FES and robotic exoskeleton technologies. The review focuses on key areas such as perceived benefits, limitations, implementation barriers, and consumer expectations. The benefits identified are multifaceted, extending from physical improvements, such as enhanced mobility and muscle strength, to psychological gains including increased confidence and sense of independence. However, these technologies also face perceived limitations, often related to accessibility, cost, and usability challenges. Beyond technical issues, implementation barriers are related to factors like insurance coverage and the need for specialized training for both users and providers. Consumer expectations include hope for technological advancements, increased accessibility and affordability, and a desire for more personalized and adaptable solutions tailored to the unique needs of individuals with SCI. This comprehensive overview of consumer perspectives offers insights into the needs and preferences of the end-users, which are essential for creating user-centric technology and effectively translating research findings into clinical practice.

Virtual Jewellery Try-On: Enhancing Consumer Engagement and Personalization

This study presents a mobile-based augmented reality (AR) solution for virtual jewelry try-on, designed to enhance the e-commerce user experience by enabling customers to visualize and interact with jewelry in real time. The system employs Google ML Kit for real-time pose detection and tracking of body landmarks such as shoulders and fingers. By integrating Flutter-based modules with machine learning models, the application achieves accurate overlay of virtual jewelry on detected positions. Interactive gesture-based controls, including tap-to-place, scaling, and rotation, allow users to customize the jewelry’s fit and appearance. To address challenges related to camera instability, smoothing algorithms are implemented to minimize visual jitter, ensuring a seamless experience. Preliminary evaluations indicate that the proposed solution delivers precise and responsive virtual jewelry placement, effectively engaging users with its intuitive interface and interactive features. Although certain limitations, such as manual adjustments and device performance constraints, persist, the system demonstrates strong potential for advancing digital jewelry retail. This research uniquely combines real-time AR, pose detection, and gesture recognition in a mobile application, offering an accessible and realistic try-on experience. It addresses critical usability challenges in the jewelry industry, bridging the gap between traditional shopping methods and digital innovation. This study highlights new opportunities for enhancing customer engagement and driving e-commerce growth within the jewelry sector.

Usability Evaluation of Learning Management Systems in Public Universities in Uganda: Lecturers’ Perspectives

Recent studies in Uganda show that Learning Management Systems (LMS) were not usable, and some were complex to use, making it difficult for lecturers to use the platforms. As a result, there has been low uptake and usage of LMS in many universities. To investigate this claim, the study set out to evaluate the usability of LMS in four public universities in Uganda, namely Makerere University, Makerere University Business School, Busitema University and Gulu University. Google Docs was used to design a System Usability Scale (SUS) which was used to evaluate the usability of the LMS in the four public universities. An open-ended questionnaire was also included in the SUS to capture qualitative data. This questionnaire was sent to different staff mailing lists in the four universities. A total of 80 questionnaires were filled and analyzed. The findings showed that the average System Usability Scale score for the LMS used in the four public universities was 60, representing about 30% usability, which is poor. The study identified several usability challenges and ways to address the usability challenges. This paper, therefore, presents an IDSS usability model for improving LMS usability in learning institutions.

From Transcription to Empathy

This study examines the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools to facilitate User-Centered Design (UCD) in the development of an online assessment platform at a public university in Mexico. Employing the Design Thinking methodology, which incorporates surveys and usability tests during the empathy stage, the study identifies and addresses key usability issues affecting educators' interactions with the platform. These methods yielded comprehensive data on user experiences and challenges, facilitating a profound understanding of user needs and pain points. Subsequently, AI tools, including ChatGPT, were used to analyze this feedback and generate detailed Empathy and User Journey Maps, which revealed significant issues. The findings underscore the necessity for a more intuitive user interface and a reduction in cognitive load. In light of these findings, the study recommends a redesign of the navigation schema and interface with the objective of simplifying tasks and improving efficiency. The combination of Design Thinking with advanced AI technologies enables the effective tackling of complex usability challenges, creating a more efficient and inclusive digital assessment environment. This integration not only enhances the UCD process but also offers deeper insights into user experiences, which ultimately increases the likelihood of adoption and enhances educator satisfaction.

The Impact of Educational Information Systems on Learning Accessibility in Higher Education

This study explores the impact of educational information systems on enhancing learning accessibility in higher education, as digital tools increasingly become integral to academic support, and student engagement. The main objective is to assess how these systems improve access to learning resources and facilitate communication, particularly for students from diverse backgrounds and with varying educational needs. Using a mixed-methods approach, this research combines quantitative analysis of accessibility metrics with qualitative insights from surveys and interviews with students and faculty across different higher education institutions. The findings show that educational information systems significantly enhance learning accessibility by providing flexible access to resources, facilitating real-time feedback, and supporting personalized learning paths. These systems also improve student engagement by enabling convenient access to materials and fostering a collaborative learning environment that accommodates different learning styles. However, the study identifies several barriers, including gaps in digital literacy, usability challenges, and unequal access to the necessary infrastructure, which can limit the effectiveness of these systems in reaching all students equally. Additionally, concerns around data privacy and system complexity are noted as areas needing attention to build user trust and ensure smoother system integration. The study concludes that while educational information systems hold great promise for improving accessibility and inclusivity in higher education, addressing these barriers through targeted training, digital equity initiatives, and robust data protection policies is essential for maximizing their potential. These insights offer valuable guidance for educational institutions aiming to create more inclusive learning environments through strategic integration of educational information systems.

GENCODE 2025: reference gene annotation for human and mouse.

GENCODE produces comprehensive reference gene annotation for human and mouse. Entering its twentieth year, the project remains highly active as new technologies and methodologies allow us to catalog the genome at ever-increasing granularity. In particular, long-read transcriptome sequencing enables us to identify large numbers of missing transcripts and to substantially improve existing models, and our long non-coding RNA catalogs have undergone a dramatic expansion and reconfiguration as a result. Meanwhile, we are incorporating data from state-of-the-art proteomics and Ribo-seq experiments to fine-tune our annotation of translated sequences, while further insights into function can be gained from multi-genome alignments that grow richer as more species' genomes are sequenced. Such methodologies are combined into a fully integrated annotation workflow. However, the increasing complexity of our resources can present usability challenges, and we are resolving these with the creation of filtered genesets such as MANE Select and GENCODE Primary. The next challenge is to propagate annotations throughout multiple human and mouse genomes, as we enter the pangenome era. Our resources are freely available at our web portal www.gencodegenes.org, and via the Ensembl and UCSC genome browsers.

Unraveling the Dynamics of e-Government Digitization, Penetration and User Experience: A Case Study of Greek Municipalities

This study examines the user experience (UX) of Greek municipal websites, the first in-depth look at local e-Government services in Greece. Using Lighthouse for technical performance and an Adapted UX Audit, it explores factors beyond digital skills affecting citizen adoption of these platforms. Findings reveal widespread deficiencies, with no municipality scoring above 55%, highlighting significant challenges in usability, functionality, and user satisfaction. Critical issues in Technical Performance and Missing Features, both scoring below 50%, suggest that inherent design flaws hinder user acceptance. The study emphasizes the need for improvements in feedback mechanisms, multilingual support, and accessible help sections to better serve diverse populations. Addressing these gaps could enhance e-democracy by fostering more inclusive, user-friendly services. The results advocate for a strategic overhaul of municipal websites to increase engagement, improve e-Government effectiveness, and strengthen democratic participation. Limitations and recommendations for future research and policy-making are also provided.

An Investigation of University Students’ Perceptions of Learning Management Systems: Insights for Enhancing Usability and Engagement

Learning management systems (LMS) have become central to modern education, enabling accessible, personalized, and engaging learning experiences. This study aims to investigate Saudi university students’ perception of LMS in order to explore the critical factors that shape their engagement, satisfaction, and acceptance of these platforms. Drawing from the existing literature that points out the usability challenges of LMS, this study hopes to derive actionable insights to optimize e-learning outcomes. Using Kelly’s repertory grid analysis technique, this study systematically captured and analyzed the personal constructs students associate with LMS, focusing on ease of use, interactivity, and content alignment with educational needs. A sample of 20 university students provided insights on their experiences with LMS features related to usability, functionality, and interactivity, which are critical to engagement. Findings indicate that ease of use is a major determinant of acceptance, along with interactivity and relevant content delivery that supports diverse learning preferences. The study identifies key elements to improve LMS platforms, fostering a more engaging digital learning environment and supporting students’ learning needs. The findings highlight the key aspects: usability of LMS and students’ satisfaction through user-friendly interfaces and interactive features. Institutions that incorporate student feedback into LMS development will likely see improved e-learning outcomes. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of LMS user perceptions and implies refinements that can align platforms with pedagogical demands in higher education.

Challenges and Responsibilities in the UX Design of Text-to-Image AI Models: A Discussion Through a Comparative Heuristics Evaluation

The rapid advancement and adoption of generative AI in creative and professional domains mark a significant evolution in technological interaction, raising pivotal discussions on its integration, usability and broader societal impact. This paper delves into the multifaceted challenges and opportunities presented by generative AI, focusing in particular on text-to-image tools and their integration into daily work practices of artists, designers, architects and researchers. As these creators increasingly incorporate AI's inherent unpredictability and ambiguity into their work, a critical examination of the ethical, legislative and environmental implications becomes imperative. We highlight how the User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) aspects of these groundbreaking technologies remain mostly underexplored. UX pioneer Jakob Nielsen has recently warned that professionals in the field must adapt to the fast-paced advancements in AI or become obsolete for an industry that is becoming pivotal in the contemporary creative field. He draws a parallel between the current AI era and the dot-com boom of the 1990s, highlighting how UX professionals were slow to adapt to the Internet, which led to missed opportunities and a lack of user-centred design. Consequently, the usability of generative AI tools is a paramount concern, especially as non-expert users increasingly engage with these systems. This paper explores the usability challenges, specifically the articulation barrier where users struggle to effectively communicate prompts to AI, and the consequent need for more intuitive and accessible interfaces. Through comparative analysis and a heuristic evaluation of four leading models, i.e. Midjourney, Dall.E, Stable Diffusion and Adobe Firefly, which presents a unique case study for comparison due to their divergent UI and UX elements, we aim to provide insights into the current state of AI tools and propose pathways for their responsible and effective use.

Tendencias emergentes en el marketing digital para el comercio electrónico en 2024

This article examines emerging trends in digital marketing and their impact on e-commerce by 2024. Through a mixed approach combining quantitative and qualitative analysis, technologies such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), voice search, and advanced personalization were investigated. The quantitative analysis was based on data from 50 e-commerce companies, while the qualitative analysis was conducted through in-depth interviews with marketing and technology directors from 10 selected companies. The results indicate that the implementation of AR and VR significantly improves customer experience and conversion rates, although it faces technical and usability challenges. Blockchain technology increases the transparency and security of transactions, reducing fraud, but presents barriers in terms of technical complexity and costs. AI enables advanced personalization, improving content relevance and sales, although it raises concerns about data privacy. Voice search optimization improves customer service efficiency, facilitating faster and more natural interactions, although integration with existing systems can be complex. Finally, advanced personalization is crucial for customer loyalty, providing personalized and satisfying shopping experiences, although it requires a robust technological infrastructure.

Exploring Faculty Members’ Experiences with Virtual Classroom Platforms and Their Perceived Usability during the COVID-19

This two-phase mixed-method study examined faculty experiences with Virtual Communication Platforms (VCPs) and their usability in distance education during the COVID-19 epidemic. A stratified random sample of 913 faculty members from 167 universities was selected to participate in an online questionnaire that included the System Usability Scale, demographic information, and open-ended questions. Twenty-five of the faculty members who had completed the online questionnaire were then interviewed in semi-structured interviews. The quantitative analysis results indicate that Zoom was the most favored platform, obtaining a ‘Good’ usability score together with Google Meet and Adobe Connect. In contrast, Perculus and Microsoft Teams were evaluated as having ‘Poor’ usability. Results also revealed the significant effect of gender on Perculus, distance education experience on Zoom, and age and academic status on Zoom and Google Meet usability perceptions. Furthermore, the qualitative analysis results revealed usability challenges (e.g., technical challenges, functionality issues, usability concerns), positive aspects (e.g., usability and effectiveness, support and issue resolution, performance and accessibility), and suggestions for improvement (e.g., instruction and support, exploration and optimization, format and assessment enhancement). The study offers valuable insights for institutions to make informed decisions about adopting VCP, investing in targeted training programs, and ultimately fostering a more effective and inclusive distance education environment.

A Roadmap for the Design of a Public-participation Geographic-Information System to Support Urban Ageing

Geospatial technologies have the potential to transform the lives of older adults by providing them with necessary tools to navigate their local communities, access services, connect with others, and access valuable information. However, the usability and accessibility of such technologies often fall short of the needs of older adults. Many existing geospatial tools are not designed with the needs and preferences of older adults in mind; this can lead to usability challenges and limit their usage. This paper explores a participatory approach in developing an inclusive geodata-collection tool that is specifically tailored to older users’ needs. The paper also highlights the importance of incorporating user-centered design principles, participatory design methods, and accessibility guidelines throughout the entire geodata-tool-development process. It also emphasizes the need for ongoing user engagement and feedback in order to ensure that the tool remains relevant and usable in the evolving digital landscape. This participatory approach has resulted in a tool that is easy to use and accessible for older adults; it is available in various languages, thus ensuring that the elderly can actively participate in the prototype’s creation and contribute to the collection of the geospatial information that reflects their lived experiences and needs.

Paper-and-Pencil vs. Electronic Patient Records: Analyzing Time Efficiency, Personnel Requirements, and Usability Impacts on Healthcare Administration.

Background: This study investigates the impact of transitioning from paper and pencil (P&P) methods to electronic patient records (EPR) on workflow and usability in surgical ward rounds. Methods: Surgical ward rounds were audited by two independent observers to evaluate the effects of transitioning from P&P to EPR. Key observations included the number of medical personnel and five critical workflow aspects before and after EPR implementation. Additionally, usability was assessed using the System Usability Scale (SUS) and the Post-Study System Usability Questionnaire (PSSUQ). Results: A total of 192 P&P and 160 EPR observations were analyzed. Physicians experienced increased administrative workload with EPR, while nurses adapted more easily. Ward teams typically consisted of two physicians and three or four nurses. Usability scores rated the system as "Not Acceptable" across all professional groups. Conclusions: The EPR system introduced usability challenges, particularly for physicians, despite potential benefits like improved data access. Usability flaws hindered system acceptance, highlighting the need for better workflow integration. Addressing these issues could improve efficiency and reduce administrative strain. As artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into clinical practice, healthcare professionals must critically assess AI-driven tools to ensure safe and effective patient care.

Ironies of Generative AI: Understanding and Mitigating Productivity Loss in Human-AI Interaction

Generative AI (GenAI) systems offer opportunities to increase user productivity in many tasks, such as programming and writing. However, while they boost productivity in some studies, many others show that users are working ineffectively with GenAI systems and losing productivity. Despite the apparent novelty of these usability challenges, these ‘ironies of automation’ have been observed for over three decades in Human Factors research on the introduction of automation in domains such as aviation, automated driving, and intelligence. We draw on this extensive research alongside recent GenAI user studies to outline four key reasons for productivity loss with GenAI systems: a shift in users’ roles from production to evaluation, unhelpful restructuring of workflows, interruptions, and a tendency for automation to make easy tasks easier and hard tasks harder. We then suggest how Human Factors research can also inform GenAI system design to mitigate productivity loss by using approaches such as continuous feedback, system personalization, ecological interface design, task stabilization, and clear task allocation. Thus, we ground developments in GenAI system usability in decades of Human Factors research, ensuring that the design of human-AI interactions in this rapidly moving field learns from history instead of repeating it.

Implementation and effectiveness of the cashless banking system

This thesis analyses the implementation and effectiveness of the cashless banking system at Ecobank, focusing on various dimensions such as usability, stakeholder satisfaction, and customer perspectives. A mixed-methods approach was employed, incorporating quantitative and qualitative data from 25 participants to evaluate the system's performance. The analysis reveals that while the cashless banking system is generally well-received, particularly in ease of task completion and overall workflow improvements, there are notable challenges in usability, particularly with interface intuitiveness and performance during peak hours. Stakeholders and customers reported moderate satisfaction, with varying experiences regarding ease of use and reliability. The study concludes that although the cashless banking system has enhanced Ecobank’s service delivery and met broad expectations, further user experience, system performance, and continuous evaluation mechanisms are necessary to optimise its effectiveness and customer satisfaction. Recommendations include focusing on user-centred design, improving scalability for peak demand periods, and establishing robust feedback loops for ongoing system refinement.