UsabilityUsability means the ease of use and learnability of a product.

Usability is important, if a program or information system is difficult to use then the end user will find an alternative solution.

UsabilityIf a website is difficult to use or navigate then the end user will try a different website

If a user cannot find a product on an e-commerce website then they may not make a purchase.

User TestingStep 1: Ask users to carry out common tasks on the website or information system (e.g. navigate, search, purchase)

Step 2: Observe the users noting how they managed to complete the tasks and any difficulties they may have experienced (but do not intervene / help).

This should be an iterative process, with changes being made in light of testing and then further testing taking place.

TestingThe purpose of testing a website or information system:

Appropriate for target user

Links and navigation work correctly

All media is correctly displayed and layout is consistent

The user can work out how to complete tasks with minimal or no help

The user experience (UX) is good

Alpha TestingAlpha testing is generally carried out in-house.

The purpose is to ensure the information system or program is ready to be beta tested by identifying and fixing as many errors as possible.

Beta TestingBeta Testing is the second and final stage of testing before the product release.

The application is tested by real users who feedback any errors or bugs, and may even suggest additional functionality.

Beta TestingBeta Testing is the second and final stage of testing before the product release.

The application is tested by real users who feedback any errors or bugs, and may even suggest additional functionality.

Closed beta testing: Small group of selected users chosen to beta test.

Open beta testing: The resource is available to the general public who are made aware that the current version is a beta release.

Beta Testing

Compatibility TestingPrograms and information systems need to be tested to ensure that they are compatible with hardware and software.

HardwareThere will be a minimum specification:Processor speedRAMHard disk drive spaceGraphics card (for high end graphics resources)

Compatibility TestingPrograms and information systems need to be tested to ensure that they are compatible with hardware and software.

SoftwareWhat software does the resource need to be compatible with?Operating System (type and version)Browsers (type and version)