UNIT 4: USERS & USER GUIDESInstructor: Stephanie Loomis Pappas

Agenda

In tonight’s seminar, we will:

Review upcoming assignmentsDefine usabilityDevelop usability testsPerform usability tests

Unit 4 HomeworkReadingRead Technical Writing Chapters 1 and 10

Discussion Review Technical Writing Chapter 17 and discuss usability testingPractice using the subject line to highlight contents

Group WorkPost and comment on comprehensive final project outlines

ProjectReview Technical Writing Chapter 10 (especially p. 214-247)Part 1: Write instructions for one of the two scenarios in the directions OR your own topicPart 2: Write a 300-word reflection about what you learned

Ingredients

Eggplants(Brinjal/Vashuthananga)Green chillies – As reqdCoriander leaves – A bunchDry or Fresh Coconut – As reqdSalt – As reqdTurmeric powder – A pinch

Chopali, S. (2010). Vankaya Kottimeera Kaaram Koora. Retrieved January 1, 2011 from www.pachakam.com.

Steps1. Cut brinjals into 4 sections taking off the stems into water.2. Heat oil in a pan.3. Add the brinjal pieces.4. Grind together green chillies, coriander leaves, salt, turmeric

powder and coconut. 5. Add this paste to the brinjals along with a little water. 6. Cover and cook until soft. 7. Garnish with a little coriander leaves. 8. Serve hot with rice.

Chopali, S. (2010). Vankaya Kottimeera Kaaram Koora. Retrieved January 1, 2011 from www.pachakam.com.

Usability Testing

Usability is “the degree to which something…is easy to use and a good fit for the people who use it” (Usability Professionals’ Association, n.d.)

Useable communications are:1. Effective—accuracy, especially when completing tasks

2. Efficient—speed, typically coupled with accuracy

3. Engaging—appeal, primarily visual design aspects

4. Error tolerant—reliable, reduced user-error potential

5. Easy to learn—intuitive, user quickly assimilates necessary skills and knowledge

Martinez, D., Peterson, T., Wells, C., Hannigan, C., & Stevenson, C. (2008). Kaplan technical writing: a resource for technical writers at all levels. New York: Kaplan Publishing.

Usability Testing: Vankaya Kottimeera Kaaram Koora

1. Visit http://www.pachakam.com/recipe.asp?id=893&RecipeName=Vankaya%20Kottimeera%20Kaaram%20Koora or use the link provided in the “links” section at the bottom left of your seminar screen.

2. Evaluate the directions based on the five criteria on the left of this slide.

EffectiveEfficientEngagingError tolerantEasy to learn

Usability Testing: Thai Green Curry with Seafood

1. Visit http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Thai-Green-Curry-with-Seafood-352634 or use the link provided in the “links” section at the bottom left of your seminar screen.

2. Evaluate the directions based on the five criteria on the left of this slide.

EffectiveEfficientEngagingError tolerantEasy to learn

Usability Testing

1. Visit http://www.ikea.com/ms/en_US/customer_service/assembly/M/M90053923.pdf or use the link provided in the “links” section at the bottom left of your seminar screen.

2. Evaluate the directions based on the five criteria on the left of this slide.

EffectiveEfficientEngagingError tolerantEasy to learn

When should you conduct usability testing?

1. Before you write

2. Halfway through writing

3. Prior to release

Martinez, D., Peterson, T., Wells, C., Hannigan, C., & Stevenson, C. (2008). Kaplan technical writing: a resource for technical writers at all levels. New York: Kaplan Publishing.

QUESTIONS?

Stick around after seminar Email me at SPappas@kaplan.edu Post your Questions to “Course Questions”