Category Archives: Usability

How do users learn and use software applications? An introduction to mental models

Posted on July 11, 2011 by Kevin Matz

As your users learn to use your software application, website, or device, they gradually form a mental model of how it works and how to operate it. A mental model is a conceptual representation, in a user’s mind, of how … Continue reading →

Posted in Information Architecture, Psychology for UX Design, Uncategorized, Usability, User Experience Design | Leave a comment

What should you look for in a usability trainer?

Posted on June 2, 2011 by Kevin Matz

On the User Experience Stack Exchange, Sushil Bharwani recently posted a great question asking for advice on how to choose a trainer to provide instruction on usability techniques. I responded with the following suggestions: If I were hiring a usability … Continue reading →

Posted in Training, Usability | Leave a comment

What is Information Architecture and why is it important in software application design?

Posted on May 18, 2011 by Kevin Matz

Can your users find the information and functions they’re looking for?  Can your users understand the concepts and terminology used in your application? Information Architecture is concerned with organizing information – concepts, entities, relationships, functionality, events, content – into a … Continue reading →

Posted in Information Architecture, Product Management, Usability, User Experience Design | Leave a comment