Accelerator keys

Shortcut keystrokes that instantly perform an operation

Acceptable margin of error

A criterion, based on sample size, which helps determine the level of confidence

you can have in your research findings.

Accessibility

Accessibility is about providing access to information for as many people as possible—by working in a variety of operating contexts, and using a multitude of browser technologies to access information published on the Web. Mistakenly

used in context of catering to disabled users only. (Also see Section 508.)

Accumulator

A graphic widget that allows the selection of multiple items from a list into a new

functional group.

Active listening

An interviewing technique in which the interviewer rephrases the interviewee’s responses to confirm understanding. Rephrasing should be neutral and provide opportunities for interviewees to describe issues in greater depth.

Active voice

Active voice A sentence structure where the subject performs the action of the

verb and the object receives the action. For example, "The user selects the dropdown

box." Active voice differs from the passive voice wherein the subject receives the action. For e.g., "The drop-down box is selected by the user." 

Ad hoc navigation

Ad hoc navigation A navigation structure that involves representing words or phrases within sentences or paragraphs as embedded hypertext links. This adds more flexibility to the formal navigation structure and freedom to emphasize

important or salient content. (Term coined by Rosenfeld and Morville,1998.)

Aerobic widgets

Aerobic widgets An effect wherein, after a user makes a selection, fields shift all over the screen to allow enabling and disabling of further input based on that selection. This is obviously undesirable. It is often advisable to use

"Deferred Create" areas instead.

(Term coined by Deborah Mayhew.)

Affordance

When a control behaves as its appearance suggests. For example, a push button

is said to have good affordance when it looks clickable. A pushbutton that does

not look clickable or a non-clickable image that looks like a pushbutton, are

examples of poor affordance. Good affordance provides intuitive interaction.

Affinity diagram

A group decision-making technique designed to sort a large number of ideas, concepts, and opinions into naturally related groups. Used in documenting task or content relationships, often created from card sort activities or group brainstorming.

Alert messages

A message, generally modal, sent to warn the user of the nature of the consequence of an action performed by the user. Alert messages typically convey errors, warnings, or important notes.

Aliasing

The jagged or stair-stepped appearance of a bitmapped font or graphic image.

(Also see Jaggies, Anti-aliasing.)

Analysis paralysis

A situation where designers spend too much time reducing data or analyzing tasks at the cost of overlooking emerging opportunities for design improvement and this analysis phase only ends when the project is cancelled.

Anti-aliasing

The process of filling out the jagged edges of an image or typeface with additional pixels. The color of the pixels is averaged between the type color and the background. (Also see Aliasing.)

Ascender

Ascender In typography, the upward vertical stem on some lowercase letters, such as "f" and "b," which extends above the x-height.

Auto skip

A feature that automatically takes the cursor to the next text entry field after the user reaches the end of the previous field without having to hit "Tab." This reduces one keyboard entry, but turns out to be a nuisance as the "skipping" does not happen if the user does not reach the end of the field. In such cases, the "Tab" still has to be used. The user then goes into a pattern of hitting "Tab"

after every entry and ends up skipping a field altogether after reaching the end of the previous field.

Basic navigation model

An elementary model for navigation that defines how a user can move within a site. The basic models are:

These models support primary user tasks. When used in combination, they support complex task requirements.

Behavioral response

Actions performed by a person as a conscious reaction to external or internal stimuli. (Also see visceral response, reflective response.)

Belt and suspender rule

A metaphor for using attributes one at a time. For example, make the header bold or increase the font size; not both. When using a belt, one doesn't need suspenders. Belt and suspender rule :To show font hierarchy, increase font size, or make text bold; not both

Benchmark testing

Testing an application against a set of standard best practices or established criteria.

Bit-depth

Refers to the resolution of the color palette in terms of bytes; 8-bit color palettes

provide 256 available colors while 16-bit color palettes provide 65,536 colors.

BOBBY

A Java application that tests a Web page for accessibility.

Bounded field / Unbounded field

The ability of a control to allow for freeform entry versus forced selection from a set of options. A bounded field (e.g., list box) forces selections making it less error prone than a text entry field, which supports freeform entry. A text field

with a format mask gives the field a bounded quality, making it less error prone (e.g., date fields with format slashes).

Browse system

A term for the menu of links that depict the major areas of the site and its sublevels. The browse system is the primary content organization and navigation system for large content sites. Browsing is a form of user interaction that supports

information seeking and learning through the associations of content links and elements designed into the site.

Card sorting

A technique to investigate how users tend to group items in order to maximize the possibility of their finding what they are looking for on the Web. The users are given a set of cards containing individual item names and are told to sort

them into related piles and label the groups. Card sorting provides insight into the user's mental model and suggests the structure and placement of items on a Web site.

Cascading menus

A hierarchical menu system that appears as the user

highlights individual items in the menu. The number of

levels in the hierarchy can vary. A cascading menu hides

site content, and can require a high degree of manual

dexterity to manipulate, causing frustration as the number

of levels increases.

Check digit

A digit in a numeric code that is derived from the code itself and made a part of it. A local program validates the code by recalculating the check digit and comparing it with the rest of the code. This precludes the need to accessing the database

to detect erroneous input of a code.

Chromatic aberration

The blurring of colors in an image caused by the unequal refraction of light rays of different colors passing through a lens, whereby all the colors do not focus at a single point. E.g., our eye cannot focus red and blue light on our retina, causing chromatic aberration.

Chromostereopsis

The visual effect of vibration or floating when the eye is attempting to accommodate at extreme ends of the color spectrum (e.g., when reds and blues are placed side by side).

Click stream

Click stream The trail of mouse clicks made by a user while performing a particular task. It often refers to linking from one page to another on the Web.

Cognitive friction

A term relating to the relative difficulty of a task and the mental effort required to complete it. Tasks that present choices and actions in accordance to the user's expectations are considered as having a low level of friction, while those that require deliberation are said to be high in cognitive friction.

Cognitive walkthrough

A usability testing strategy in which a developer group systematically evaluates each element on every screen in the context of the various tasks (e.g., how likely would a user click this button for Task A? What would happen if they did? Etc.).

Color depth

The number of colors that can be displayed on a monitor at any given time. For example, the Video Graphics Array (VGA) standard allows a color depth of 256.

Combo box

A combination of a text entry field and a dropdown

list to allow users to either select from existing

options or type a completely new entry.

Common region

The Gestalt principle of grouping that states that

items grouped within a region (e.g., using a background plane) tend to be perceived as belonging together.

Comparison tests

Tests done at almost any stage of the development life cycle that compare applications against a set of established criteria. These tests can be done with users (referred to as a within subjects test) or by experts.

Compound controls

More than one type of control is combined to give the appearance of a single control, e.g., combo box.

Computer expertise

A relative comfort with technology; adeptness while using a computer or advanced technology. (Also see Domain expertise.)

Concept sketch

An outline drawing to indicate ideas about how to solve a specific design problem. It excludes the level of detail that goes into the final product. Concept sketches are used at the beginning of the design process to quickly explore different

ideas and to narrow down to an effective design.

Conceptual

Represents a system structure, as users perceive it. Begins the transition from research and planning into precursors for design. Sets the foundation for developing a site navigation framework by clearly defining the users, their tasks and

environment, and how they conceptualize information.

Conceptual model

A model constructed by the users in their mind to understand the working or the structure of objects, with previous experience to speed up their understanding. Also called mental model.

Confirmation bias

The human predisposition to notice information that is consistent with our current beliefs but to ignore information that conflicts with our current beliefs.

Connectedness

The Gestalt principle of grouping that states that items connected with visual elements (e.g., lines) tend to be perceived as belonging together.

Content design

A term given to a set of design areas that focuses on the information value of content, as opposed to the presentation of it. The content topics include editorial style, internationalization, and accessibility. The term content design intends to differentiate these topics from other topics for purposes of evaluation and development.

Content graphic

A type of graphic designed for the purpose of providing specific content, as differentiated from graphics that add aesthetic value or brand value. Examples of content graphics include complex charts, maps, and product photographs. Of all the graphic types, content graphics are the most likely to serve as a destination in their own right, as opposed to a marker for entry into information (e.g., icon).

Context effect

The effect of surrounding elements on the perceived meaning or use of an isolated element. For example, the meaning of an individual link.

Context sensitive popup menu

A short list of choices or instructions with information that is customized for a particular area of a program, appearing on screen in a small window.

Contextual inquiry

A direct data gathering method in which the usability analyst shadows an enduser through their day/ tasks. Helpful for developing a clear understanding of both the context of the tasks and a compressive environmental analysis.

Conversion rate

Typically, the percentage of site visitors who actually buy something on the site.

Cross checking (cross validation)

Error checking technique usually applied to forms that compare two or more field inputs.

Customer-developer links

As defined by Keil and Carmel (1995), connections between developers and endusers in the software development process. These can be direct (developers talk to end-users) or indirect (developers interact with intermediary user representatives).

Decision table

An information mapping technique that simplifies complex logic presented in textual form by re-writing it as a visual table.

Deferred create

Refers to the technique of reusing an area of a page or window for dynamically displaying content based on a user’s selection.

Descender

In typography, the portion of some lowercase letters, such as "g" and "y," which

extends or descends below the baseline?

Design moves

Changes made to the design based on test results.

Design validation

A post hoc evaluation that the site has the functions and elements identified as needed in the user analysis. Tests the correspondence of the design with the end users' actual needs.

Design verification

The process of confirming that the interface, as built, corresponds with the design that was specified. In contrast, design validation tests correspondence of the design with the end users' actual needs.

Detailed design

A step in the design process, followed by high-level structure, navigation and architecture, that focuses on presentation, content and interaction issues.

Advanced prototypes are generated to test detailed page elements such as controls,

color, graphics, and wording.

Deuteranopia

A specific type of color weakness based on the reduced ability to perceive colors

within the green spectrum. Reportedly the most common type of color weakness.

Direct manipulation

Performing operations by making changes to data directly, such as clicking on it, dragging it, resizing it, and typing over it, as opposed to indirect operations such as typing commands in a menu line or using menus and dialog boxes.

Direct user data

User data collected through direct, face-to-face interaction with endusers. Methods include direct interviews, focus groups, and usability roundtables. (Also see Indirect user data.)

Discount testing

Simple and low-cost testing techniques. Usually done early in design. Discount testing has less formal controls and structure.

Document Type Definition (DTD)

In SGML, a complete definition of a markup language defining elements of the document as well as the tags used to identify them.

Drop-down list box

A list of limited options that is displayed below a

field after clicking it, to avoid errors and save keystrokes.

Editorial links

A term for links that dynamically come and go on top-level pages of a site depending on the promotional needs of the site. To be differentiated from browsing or search elements that remain stable and permanent on the site over time.

Efficiency

A usability metric that captures how easily a task is completed with a given interface (e.g., time for completion, number of key-strokes for completion). Must be measurable in quantitative terms.

Environmental profile

A snapshot of the circumstances external to the users and their tasks, which affect their accomplishing their goals with the system. Includes the setting, circumstances, and physical systems used. (Also see Task profile and User profile).

Error analysis

A component of task analysis, which strives to identify the frequency and types of errors that occur for a specified set of task flows. Can include Errors of Omission, Errors of Commission, Sequence Errors, or Timing Errors.

Error of commission

A type of error in which a user performs an act incorrectly. This could involve providing an incorrect input, for example. (Also see Error of omission, Sequence error.)

Error of omission

An error in which a user fails to perform a specific task or step (Also see Error of commission, Sequence error.)

Executive champion

A person in an organization who takes upon himself the task of advocating usability and encourages products to be designed with the end-user's needs in mind. Also called key opinion leader.

Expectancy test

An early usability test to evaluate the initial mental model of the user and their expectations about what the application or site would do. This test is usually done prior to a performance test.

Explicit save

A data-saving feature that requires the user to clearly state that the data needs to be stored in the memory. (Also see Implicit save.)

Facilitated workshops

Meetings in which developers and users convene to discuss aspects of an interface under development. Sometimes called Joint Advisory Development (JAD)

sessions.

False bottoms

Something that looks like the end of a page, but isn't.

Feature centric

Refers to a mindset that focuses primarily on a checklist of features offered by a product rather than on its usability.

Feature creep

Excessive provision of features in a product in an attempt to make it more technologically

competitive but failing in usability.

Focal points of design

The four focal points of design that evolve during the design process are navigation,

content, presentation, and interaction design.

Focus groups

A direct data gathering method in which a small group (8–10) of participants are

led in a semi-structured, brainstorming session to elicit rapid feedback about an interface under development. Focus group data is most useful for generating new ideas or functions for an interface, rather than evaluating an existing one.

Group dynamics often make focus group data suspect.

Font salad

Excessive usage of font families, styles, and sizes in one single page.

Forced device jumping

The result of designs that continually requires the user to move from one input device to another unnecessarily.

Formative testing

Testing the design during development to answer and verify design decisions. Results are used to modify the existing design and provide direction. Usually done with paper prototypes. (Also see Summative testing.)

Free exploration test

A usability test in which participants are asked to use the site without scenarios in order to procure more realistic data on how the site is typically explored. This test provides useful insights on how choices are made on a site.

Function

General means or action in which a system or sub-system fulfills its requirements Usually expressed in verb form, e.g., enables access to the "contact us" information.

Functional allocation

The distribution of task responsibilities across humans and technology for a given

task or function.

Functioning prototype

A Web design prototype that functions almost like a final product. Such a prototype is used in Web usability tests especially where navigation is the most critical.

Fusing data

Bringing multiple levels of information into a single view in order to simplify the decision making process.

General presentation rules

The guidelines within a Web standard that define the presentation rules for the pages including: use of branding elements, color, layout, editorial style, graphics, and typography.

Gestalt principles

A set of principles developed by the Gestalt Psychology Movement that established

rules governing how humans perceive order in a complex field of objects. Gestalt principles of visual organization state that objects near each other, with same background, connected to each other, or having similar appearance are perceived as belonging to a group. (Also see Common region, Connectedness, Proximity, and Similarity.)

Global navigation

Refers to page links that appear on every page, usually in the header or footer. It provides site-wide access to universal content or functions.

Heuristics

Established principles of design and best practices in Web site design, used as a method of solving usability problems by using rules of thumb acquired from human factors experience.

Hierarchical drill-down

In Web site design, a type of structure where the user may jump from the home page to any number of pages and back to the home page again. (Also see Hub-and-spoke, Basic navigation structures.)

Hierarchical structures 

(in information architecture)

A set of various levels of groups and subgroups for categorizing items, often used to organize the content on a Web site.

High-level structure

The architectural structure of a Web site. Most easily seen with a diagram of the entire site, all its pages, and their inter-relationships.

Hooks

In journalism, a hook is a technique used to grab the reader's attention. For example, a question: Would you like to lose ten pounds this week?

Horizontal prototype

Prototypes that display a wide range of features without fully implementing all of them. Horizontal prototypes provide insights into users' understanding of relationships across a range of features.

Hub-and-spoke

In Web site design, a type of structure where the user may jump from the home page (the hub) to any number of pages (spokes) and back to the home page again. (Also see Hierarchical drill-down, Basic navigation structures.)

Human factors psychology

The study of the predispositions and constraints in human cognition, perceptual

and motor systems in the context of interface development. That is, exploration

of ways to develop safe and efficient technology and other artifacts such that they provide the best fit for human interaction. Traditionally the focus of Human Factors has been in engineering and industrial design systems such as aviation,

military systems, manufacturing, and automotive design.

Hybrid navigation model

(hybrid structure)

The combination of basic navigation models (e.g., a hub-and-spoke with a persistent model) that supports a user’s task flow. Hybrid structures are typical of complex sites and often strive to flatten the information hierarchy to reduce the number

of steps to content.

Hypertext structures

(in information architecture)

Cross-linked structures within a Web site or application. Hypertext structures are

typically used to enhance navigation within hierarchical silos when the silos are

not discrete.

Image placeholder

The text that appears while an image is downloading. Provides users with descriptive information about the graphic while they are waiting.

A measurement system involving the use of yards, feet, and inches. Used by the United States and some English-speaking countries. The rest of the world uses the metric system.

Implicit save

A data-saving feature that automatically saves data in the memory while it is entered and does not require the user to explicitly perform a save action. (Also see Explicit save.)

Indirect user

User-centered data gathering methods that do not involve face-to-face interactions with the users. Data may originate from surveys, user analysts, or marketing efforts. (Also see Direct user data.)

Information architecture

Part of the conceptual design stage; primarily associated with defining an organization

for Web site content (but can include characterizing task flow or task relationships

within a content organization). Includes the processes of defining site

hierarchies, content organization, and labeling schemes for all types of menu systems,

and the techniques for creating and evaluating them.

Interaction design

A term given to a set of design areas that focuses on the interaction value of

content, as opposed to its presentation or information value. The interaction topics

include Web controls, error handling, and feedback systems. The value of the

term “interaction design” is relative; i.e., it is intended to differentiate these topics

from other topics for purposes of evaluation and development.

Interactive Voice Response (IVR)

An interface system that accepts human voice as input mechanism, translates it

into recognizable commands, and reacts accordingly. Such a system is becoming

popular in telephones and mobile devices where other input methods are limited.

Interlaced image

Interlacing is a process by which the image is displayed in a series of passes,

each skipping a certain number of lines and the consecutive passes filling in the

skipped lines. Images initially look "fuzzy" and become clearer as the file loads,

giving the viewer a blurry preview of the entire image rather than a clear incomplete

picture. (Also see Progressive image.)

International Organization 

for Standardization (ISO)

A worldwide umbrella organization, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, that establishes non-proprietary standards. In the United States, the ISO is represented by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

Internet capable

A device capable of accessing the Internet.

Interocular test

Only a statistician's joke. Means the numbers jump up and hit you between the eyes.

Interviews

One-on-one interactions between end-users and usability analysts, designed to elicit the users' conceptual model of a system, the tasks and task flows, or other issues related to design. Direct interviews are the best way to capture user-centered data.

Inverted pyramid writing

A form of writing where conclusions are presented right at the beginning or top of the pyramid, and the details and fine points at the bottom. This enables the reader to stop at any moment without missing the main points of the document.

Iterative testing

Testing repeatedly as the design converges on a proper decision.

Joint Advisory Design

(JAD) sessions

Meetings in which developers and users convene to discuss aspects of an interface under development. Sometimes called facilitated workshops.

Labeling systems

The selection and placement of labels that best accommodate navigation.

Landing Page

A specific Web page that is reached through direct links from another Web page.

Also referred to as the page that a user is redirected to from a link in a marketing

direct email message. Such a page is designed with the objective of a high “conversion rate,” i.e., converting the visitor into a customer.

Late adopters

Individuals who are slower to adopt new technologies. They are typically more

challenging to design for, because they tend to be more distracted by poor interface

usability. In addition, they are less goal-oriented and tend to want a user experience.

Layout graphic

Graphics that help delineate, group, or divide content. A type of graphic designed

for the purpose of organizing content, making it easy to comprehend or scan.

Layout graphics are typically subtle and are least commented on by users. They

can be used to support a brand or theme.

Leaf Node

The last node in a tree structure that contains no further data or links. In navigation

terms, it is the last page in any hierarchical structure. It is farthest from the

home page and does not lead to any other page.

Learnability

A usability metric that measures how easy it is to begin productively using an application or interface. That is, how much if any training is required?

Likert scale

A type of survey question where respondents are asked to rate the level on which they agree or disagree with a given statement on a numeric scale. E.g., 1–7, where 1 = strongly agree and 7 = strongly disagree. (Also see Rating scale.)

Line cues

A line placed strategically, usually between every five or six rows of text, to aid visual scanning.

Line length

Refers to the number of characters per line, not the numeric measurement of the line.

Live site analysis

Refers to a range of techniques used to evaluate live Web sites including expert reviews (for general design issues and consistency checks), userperformance testing, split-site studies, surveys, server log analysis and competitive analysis.

Local navigation

Relative to global navigation, local navigation refers to navigation within a local area of a site or application. Includes sub-site navigation and page-level navigation. (Also see Global navigation.)

Localization

The process of adapting a product to meet the linguistic, cultural, and other requirements of a specific target environment or market (or locale).

Luminance

The measurement of intensity of light. The subjective experience is brightness.

(Also see Lightness.)

Marketing graphic

A type of graphic designed for the purpose of enforcing or establishing brand, including the company logo.

Masked data entry control

A specialized input control that aids the user in entry by providing formatting characters in the control (e.g. a phone number entry field that automatically formats the area code as distinct from the remaining numbers).

Memorability

A usability metric that measures how easy it is to remember how to use an application or interface after a period of non-use. Memorability metrics assume that users have used the interface successfully before.

Mental map or model

An internal representation of one's environment. Users form mental maps to help them navigate in space.

Modal dialog box

Refers to a mode of a page or window that guides the user interaction. A modal window requires the user to finish interaction on that page before a new page can be accessed (e.g., a dialog box that requires OK or Cancel to be selected before interaction can return to the primary window). A non-modal window

allows for continued interaction with other application windows while the nonmodal

window remains open.

Moderated usability testing

A usability test in which a moderator provides instructions and information about

tasks to be performed. The moderator also observes and participates as needed

during the entire test.

Monetary format rules

Rules for formatting monetary values in data entry fields. Symbols, punctuation, and length of characters vary with different nationalities.

Monochrome

Black and white or a single color with black. Early

monochrome monitors had green or amber colored

display on black or gray background.

Mouse-primary

When the use of the mouse takes precedence over the use of the keyboard. A task is said to be mouse-primary or keyboard-primary.

Monospaced font

Typeface attribute in which every letter occupies the same lateral space, thus the "I" has lots of room while the "m" is cramped. This font is commonly used for input fields on forms, and in selected applications; but otherwise, it is the least

readable category of type. (Also see Proportional font.)

Multiple document interface

An application interface in WindowsTM that displays and allows the user to work

with more than one document simultaneously. This eliminates the need to load

another instance of the application for each subsequent document. (Also see

Single document interface.)

Navigation design

Based on task design and information architecture definitions developed in conceptual

design, navigation design marks the first formal step of design. It includes the development of wire frames and graphical mockups to test the site structure and visual direction. A set of core navigation pages are designed, tested, and iterated during this stage to ensure that the user interface structure is sound before investing in detailed design.

Negative advertising

The result of poor usability: unsatisfied users who tell others to avoid a site or process because of their bad experience.

Numeric format rules

Rules for formatting numeric values in data entry fields.

Operationalized variable

A variable or metric that has been defined clearly enough to be observed and measured in a way that is replicable.

Organization schemes

Logical grouping of content based on particular criteria. E.g. chronological, alphabetical, or geographical organization.

Organization structures

Relationships between content and groups.

Orienting response

A reflex as a response to something novel that occurs, where the individual stops what he is doing and turns his sensors to the source of stimulation.

Page types

A term used to refer to a set of page components that together form a page designed to satisfy specific user requirements (e.g., a search and results page allows a user to query a database and review the results of the query). Page types form the basis of an effective Web standard.

Parallel construction

Using the same format for every text or graphic composition, especially when

constructing lists. E.g., items should be all sentences or all phrases, not a combination

of the two. If an item starts with a verb, use the same verb format throughout. For example, action-object phrasing for menu items should be followed consistently for individual menu items within a group (e.g., view report, create new report, edit report, search report).

Parse

To separate into component parts. For example, an SGML parser can parse an HTML document to check for errors.

Passive voice

The voice of a verb tells whether the subject of the sentence performs or receives the action. In the passive voice, the subject receives the action of the verb. For example, the drop-down box is selected by the user. Passive sentences

are generally longer, more complex, and more difficult to process cognitively.

(Also see active voice.)

Path analysis and usage statistics

In the Web environment, various tools that yield a wealth of information about users’ behavior on the site.

Performance data

Data that focuses on user behavior and/or how (well) users complete a task. Did

the user get the right answer? Usability tries to focus on performance data rather

than preference data. (Also see Preference data.)

Persistent context

Structure used for navigating across a range of tasks that are performed in conjunction

with one another.

Personas

A concrete characterization of a single user group through a synthesis of the

user, task, and environment profiles of that group. It provides detailed example

of the potential end-user that represents a specific target audience type.

Personas help developers think in terms of users by providing insight into how

they might use the product. Especially helpful when there are no current users of

the Web site.

Phi phenomenon

A perceptual illusion in which a disembodied perception of motion is produced by a succession of still images, as described by Gestalt psychologist Max Wertheimer (1912) after experimenting with flashing lights in quick successions causing apparent movement.

Population stereotype

An established knowledge that a set of people have about the world, causing

them to have strong expectations about how things should work, such as turning

a knob or opening a door. People may thus be unpleasantly surprised if such

expectations are not met with.

Practicality test

A test of the task flow's feasibility, given the nature of the users and their environment.

Preference data

Data that focuses on user perceptions. Did they feel that the task was easy? Do they like the way the interface works? Usability tries to focus on performance data rather than preference data. 

Presentation design

A term given to a set of design areas that focuses on the presentation of information,

as opposed to its information value. Presentation topics include layout,

color management, graphics, and typography. The value of the term presentation

design is relative; i.e., it is intended to differentiate these topics from other topics

for purposes of evaluation and development.

Probes

The technique used in in-depth interviews to explore the interviewee's emotions

about the given topic. The questions asked gently nudge the interviewees to disclose

their feelings. E.g., "How do you feel about shopping online?"

Progressive disclosure

An interaction design technique that provides information in sequence across a

number of steps with increasing level of detail as requested by the user, to

reduce information overload on the user.

Progressive image

Also known as interlaced image. Interlacing is a process by which the image is

displayed in a series of passes, each skipping a certain number of lines, and the

consecutive passes filling in the skipped lines. The image initially looks "fuzzy"

and becomes clearer as the file loads, giving the viewer a blurry preview of the

entire image rather than a clear incomplete picture. (Also see Interlaced image.)

Proportional font

A category of type with variable horizontal space between each character. The

shape and width of the character determine the amount of space needed on

either side of it. This makes it easier and more pleasing to read. (Also see Monospaced font.)

Protocol simulation (user

performance testing)

Individual users are asked to complete a series of representative tasks using a prototype. While they work, they talk out loud. This gives the researcher a clear understanding of the users' thought processes. (Also see Think aloud protocol.)

Proximity

The Gestalt principle of grouping that states that items that are placed close together tend to be perceived as belonging together.

Psychodynamics

A science that studies an individual's interaction of various conscious and unconscious

mental or emotional processes, the response to the input from the senses

and preprogrammed instincts, and how the interaction influences personality,

behavior, and attitudes.

Readability statistics

A Microsoft Word tool to approximate the reading ease and grade level of written text. The statistics in this report are not always 100 percent accurate. 

Reflective response

Thoughtful, contemplative reaction by a person to any external or internal stimuli. (Also see Behavioral response, Visceral response.)

Relative databases (in information architecture)

A type of information architecture that is based on a rigid template scheme. Works best for highly patterned data.

Reliability

In survey methodology, will a question elicit the same response over and over

again? For example, "What is your shoe size?" is generally a reliable question.

"What is the date?" is not a reliable question.

Representative sampling

The process of determining and selecting a group of participants from a larger

population that represents your target market. Factors that cause sample to be

non-representative - Sampling error, Coverage error, Nonresponse error, and

Measurement error.

Research and planning

The first stage of user-centered design, characterized by an evaluation of precursor

designs and the gathering of business and user objectives for a new site.

Typically includes setting business goals, defining user requirements, and understanding

brand objectives.

Response surface

An analytical representation of multidimensional data that depicts interpolation between data points such that it is easy to visualize and spot trends.

Restricted character set

A set of characters from which some alphabets and numbers are omitted in

order to avoid being confused with others due to their similarity when written in

uppercase, lowercase, or sound when read. The most common bad actors omitted

from alpha-numeric codes are "I" which may be confused with the number 1

or lowercase "L," and "O" with the number zero.

Reverse card sort

A usability testing technique, opposite to that of a card sort, where participants

are given a list of items to see if they can figure out where to find them. Their

success validates the self-evidence of the navigational structure of a design. (Also

see Card sort.) Categories have already been made and labeled appropriately.

Satisficing

A theory of human problem solving that says people minimize expended effort

by using shortcuts to make decisions. For instance, humans tend to select the

first correct answer they encounter rather than rationally and systematically

evaluating all possible answers prior to selection. This concept was first presented

by Herb Simon.

Saturated color

Saturation refers to the amount of the hue present, relative to gray.

Scenario

1. A concrete, often narrative description of a user performing a task in a specific

context. Often a use scenario describes a desired or to-bebuilt function. This contrasts

with a task scenario, which describes a currently implemented function.

2. A prescribed set of conditions under which a user will perform a set of tasks to

achieve an objective defined by the developer.

Scent

Cues provided in an interface to help people trace and navigate to desired information. Ambiguous cues provide false or insufficient "scent."

Schema (pl. schemata)

A cluster of human memory that is described as a pattern of connections of neurons

in the brain with nodes and links that are so strong that they can be retrieved together as a single memory unit. In essence, it is a packet of information based on knowledge and experience.

Screen readers

Software applications that interpret the text displayed on a computer monitor

and convert it to speech or Braille for disabled users. E.g., Jaws®, pwWebSpeak.

Screener

A questionnaire, used at the outset of a usability test, containing criteria for participant

selection such as user, task, and environment profiles, demographics, etc. These act as filters to ensure selection of only suitable participants for the

study.

Search and results

A standard page type that allows the user to search for data based on any number

of criteria (e.g., customer name, zip code) and view the search results.

Usually the "search" task panel occupies one portion of the screen while the

"results" occupies another.

Secondary browser windows

Windows that appear in front of main windows and give additional information or activities related to items on the main window. Typically these are used in control-less browsers.

Sequence error

A specific error type in which a user attempts to complete a component of a modal or ordered task out of sequence, resulting in a system error. Eg. A B D C.

Signal / noise ratio

The proportion of meaningful content to extraneous interference. Writing is more powerful when the signal (message) is high and the noise (verbiage) is low. Maximize the signal/noise ratio.

Similarity

The Gestalt principle of grouping that states that items with the same size, shape,

color or shade tend to be perceived as belonging together. (Also see Gestalt principles,

Common region, Connectedness, Proximity.)

Single document interface

An application in Windows TM that displays and allows the user to work with only

one document at a time, necessitating the user to reload another instance of the

application for each subsequent document. (Also see Multiple document interface.)

Skills training

Training for professionals, that focuses on imparting knowledge through participatory activities in order to gain proficiency in a particular field. 

Spin button

A control to make a single choice from a short

list, with up and down arrows to increase or

decrease the measure in the selection. Such a

control is provided if there is a clear up or down

sequence within choices (such as numbers,

length).

Split site studies

Though rarely done, it is possible to create two versions of the site. Users are

randomly assigned one of two or more versions of a site to compare performance

and usability differences between designs.

Stakeholder

Any individual who has vested interests in the design project and its outcome,

including clients, managers, software developers, designers, marketers, distributors,

store-owners, and almost everyone involved with the product.

Standards design

The process of developing a Web standard including the development of exemplar page types, general presentation rules, and guidelines for how to use the standard.

Subjective rating

A rating that is based on an individual reaction or opinion, feelings, desires or priorities, often measured on a Likert scale to allow for a quantitative measure.

Summative testing

Testing done to measure the success of the design in terms of human performance and preference. (Also see Formative testing.)

Surveys

An indirect user-centered analysis method for gathering information from a large

number of users. Issues in survey design include: reaching a representative sample,

participant self-filtering, question development and measurement bias,

attracting enough responses. E.g., Marketing survey needs assessment survey,

evaluation survey, diagnostic survey.

SWAG

Scientific Wild Ass Guess, an estimation method.

Systems analysis

Reducing a system into its simpler constituents for the purpose of better understanding

of the whole system, its function, and the functions of its constituents. The constituents include personnel, hardware, and software, and the functions include both system operation and maintenance functions.

Task analysis

The process of evaluating a task or activity to determine the criteria for successful

completion. Task analysis also serves to optimize task efficiency by reflecting the users’ understanding and expectations of the task.

Task depth

The number of vertical levels of a hierarchical structure.

Task design

Part of the conceptual design stage; refers to the design of a task flow using various

formats (task lists, task flow diagrams, etc.) prior to prototyping. Task design

follows a task analysis and embodies the new task flow—these flows can be tested

for practicality before any formal page design has been done.

Task flow diagrams

Diagrams that show the various user tasks and their inter-relationship.

Task flow problems map

A diagram that maps out problems in the task flow of a design.

Task panels

Portions of the screen where a particular task is performed. E.g., in a search and

display screen, usually the search task panel occupies one portion of the screen

while the results occupies another. Task panels allow navigation across tasks using persistent elements displayed on every page.

Task profile

An overview of a given task outlining the task characteristics that impact usable design, including importance, frequency, sequence, dependency, flow, and mission criticality. (Also see Environmental profile, User profile.)

Task scenario

A concrete, often narrative, description of a user interacting with an interface.

Task scenarios typically describe functions that currently exist on an interface.

This contrasts with a use scenario, which describes a future use or function of an

interface that is under development. 

Task statement

One representation for documenting tasks in user-centered task analysis. Task statements should include an actor, an action, and a goal or outcome. E.g., user enters address; manager runs report.

Thematic graphic

A type of graphic designed for the purpose of reinforcing a theme carried throughout the site. E.g., the picture of a beach might enhance the theme of vacation.

Think aloud protocol

An interview strategy in which participants are asked to narrate their activities as

they simultaneously complete a task so that the interviewer can develop a better

understanding of the users' mental model, decision criteria, and expectations for

a task or task flow. (Also see Protocol simulation.)

Thumbnail images

On the Web, miniature, thumbnail-sized images that can be enlarged if desired

(usually by clicking). Using thumbnail images instead of large graphics saves

space and reduces file size.

Tight-loop projects

Projects that have frequent tests throughout the system development life cycle. These projects have the greatest chance of success.

Topology Study

Study of a system showing the relationships of the system-specific parts.

Unbounded Field

The ability of a control to allow for freeform entry

versus forced selection from a set of options. (Also

see Bounded field.)

Unique selling proposition (USP)

An exclusive message that concisely describes a product against its competition,

and which the business or brand can use consistently in its advertising and promotion

to achieve a cutting edge in the market.

Unmoderated usability testing

Each participant interacts with a Web site from his or her location with a computer.

Instructions and information about tasks to be performed are provided in a

special area of the browser. Special buttons may be added to the browser to

enable participants to provide additional information via small questionnaires. No

moderator is involved.

Usability-centric

Refers to a mindset that focuses primarily on usability rather than features.

Usability criteria

Benchmarks such as formal measurements that serve as a target for the level of

usability of a product. Metrics may include how fast a user can perform a task,

number of errors made on a task, learning time, and subjective ratings.

Usability roundtable

A meeting in which a group of end users is invited to bring specific work samples and discuss the validity of an early prototype.

Usability test

Investigative methods to determine the ease of use of a product, primarily involving observation of potential users actually interacting with the product and measuring the results.

Use case

A user-centered design method in which critical tasks are systematically documented

with their prerequisites, the users' steps and system steps, and the task

outcome. Use cases are typically described in the abstract, which makes them

particularly helpful in object-oriented design. Scenarios are concrete instantiations

of use-cases.

Use scenario

1. A concrete, often narrative description of a user performing a task in a specific context. Often a use scenario describes a desired or to-bebuilt function. This contrasts with a task scenario, which describes a currently implemented function.

2. A prescribed set of conditions under which a user will perform a set of tasks to achieve an objective defined by the developer.

User-centered analysis

A method of collecting data to develop an understanding of user intentions and

interface use patterns. User-centered analysis provides concrete data to prioritize

and drive interface design.

User-centered design (UCD)

Design methodology in which interviews and empirical tests of users needs determine the characteristics of a design or computer application.

User interface structure

A term used to refer to the basic content organization of the site and its navigation

model. Different from the page level content, the user interface structure defines the containers for content and means for navigation to it.

User profile

A general description of a user group for a specific interface. Typically includes characteristics that may influence design choices, such as: demographic characteristics, education, language, computer expertise, domain experience, motivation, or expectations. (Also see Environmental Profile, Task profile.)

User satisfaction

A metric of usability that focuses on how well the user perceives the interface to work and how well it meets his/her needs.

Validity

The extent to which an object does what it was designed to or the extent to which a question measures what it was intended to.

Vectored

A font or graphic image that is stored and displayed as a geometric entity with

vector information (magnitude and direction) rather than points. Since they are

mathematical representation of images rather than a matrix of pixels, they occupy

less file space and are easy to scale. (Also see Bitmapped.)

Vertical prototype

Prototypes that display just a few complex features of a product and almost completely

implement only these features. Vertical prototype tests provide insights into users' understanding of the complexity, issues, and problems of a specific

feature. (Also see horizontal prototype.

Visceral response

Impulsive or instinctive reaction that comes from within one's mental or spiritual being. (Also see Behavioral response, Reflective response.)

Visual affordance test

A usability test to investigate users' expectations about possible interaction with an interface by just looking at the interface. This test is used to determine the success of the interface with respect to its navigation design.

Visual hierarchy

Refers to the overall page layout and its ability to lead the users’ attention

through the page elements. Effective visual hierarchies create an appropriate

balance in composition that draws users to top levels of the hierarchy while optimizing

visual access to important page level elements. 

Wake-up call

A significant event, report, or situation that brings an issue to immediate attention and alerts one to possible negative repercussions if status quo continues and no steps are taken to control the current situation.

Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI)

World Wide Web Consortium recommendations for creating Web pages, and Web browser and authoring software that can be used by everyone on any Web capable device.

Web design standard

A set of guidelines developed for a large Web development team to ensure consistency

and good design across pages within and between Web sites. Effective

Web standards include the design of page types and general presentation rules

as well as rules of how and when to use the guidelines.

Web log

A record of Web site use reported by a tool such as WebTrends. Web logs typically show most visited directories and pages, where users enter the site, what words they searched for to find the site and their path through the site.

Window thrashing

Rapid manipulation of windows caused by limited display resource, wasting users' time in activating, resizing, repositioning, or orienting to the new window.