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Our Open Source Methods
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Competence in usability is not restricted to testing. In the scope of Linux and other Open Source usability, we mainly use the below repertory of our Methods from A-Z section. In the case of Linux/ Open Source Usability, methods may apply to both the software development process, and the migration to Open Source solutions. In the latter case, existing software is adjusted in order to fit the requirements of the collaborators.
User Profiling
From market data and interview results we model several hypothetical 'typical user' profiles. In Open Source software development, these abstracted profiles serve as a basis for prioritization of features and evaluation of design alternatives. In the case of a migration to Linux they provide information on how to differentiate users and thus to provide individual help desks and training programs. Also, the users' anonymity is broken to establish a plain starting basis to each participating party.
Naming and Wording
In general, the users' vocabulary of concepts is very distinct from concepts that are common in the process of software development. Card Sorting and other tests assist with uncovering that vocabulary. Such methods mainly contribute to assemble both intuitive navigation and labeling during the process of software development, and retrospectively, when configuring the Linux desktop according to specifc user types.
Usability Testing
Usability testing can reveal the degree to which a software product is adapted to your target audience. Ideally, usability testing should be conducted before final development begins in order to anticipate and eliminate usability problems early in the process. But as well, a usability test is crucial in gaining information in the scope of a migration to Linux and other Open Source solutions.
Usability Styleguide
Many decisions concerning user prompting cannot be anticipated before they emerge in the production stage. A usability style guide supports developers in the production stage to develop consistent and user-friendly interfaces throughout the application. Especially in locally distributed development settings, as one can find in most Open Source projects, a common usability styleguide is crucial.
Usability Bug Reporting
An institutionalised way of bug reporting is off-the-shelf in Open Source projects. Accordingly, we provide feedback solutions that support the communication between users and developers with regard to usability problems. An improved and problem-oriented communication allows for a continuous quality assurance.
Workshops
The first step in obtaining user-friendly software is to sensitise the decision makers and team members to the issue of usability. In our workshops, we discuss the subject with you and your team and generate solutions collectively. Involving your team members into decision making will increase their satisfaction and improve their attitude towards the project, no matter if it is about software development or migration to Linux or other Open Source products. |
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