The Technical Assessment of Software Usability with Reference to Screen Readers for the Graphical User Interface (GUI)

Abstract

The usability of software is critically important; the wide uptake of graphical user interfaces (GUIs) such as Windows 95 in business and education has thrown the Issue of usability into even sharper focus as users with no sight have tried to access assistive technology which often falls to assist. In part, this is because manufacturers face real technical challenges in designing screen readers that can Interpret the new Interface satisfactorily; but more substantially It is because many firms, Instead of utilising good software design and considering usability from the outset, still seem to ‘contract out' usability testing to the end-user. This Paper describes a method of assessing software usability, using test instruments developed Iteratively through the process of conducting usability assessment of existing screen reader software for Windows 95. The method is therefore grounded in practice and does not require speclallst equipment or mathematics. It is particularly suited to end-users responsible for purchasing decisions or training.