In this workshop we look at some of the most popular usability inspection methods. Inspection methods are techniques often applied by experts to improve usability in a variety of interactive products.

Inspection methods are often referred to as ‘discount usability’ because of their lower cost to apply relative to other usability processes (such as user testing for example). However, the price of low cost methods comes at a cost of poor reliability when inspections are poorly prepared.

We also look at how research into usability inspection methods has demonstrated that analyst preparation is essential to successful, more reliable usability inspections. In this workshop we look at how we can maximise analyst preparation to achieve more reliable usability inspections.

In usability inspections, analysts rely on a variety of ‘knowledge resources’ to support decision making during the inspection process (problem discovery and analysis). Appropriate or misuse/misunderstanding of these knowledge resources can have a significant effect on the outcome of usability inspections.

Upon successful completion of this module, attendees will have demonstrated:

• Comprehensive knowledge of inspection methods and their current limitations
• In depth knowledge of the relevant knowledge resources essential to reliable usability inspection methods
• Maximising usability inspection by appropriate planning and preparation

The inspection methods workshop is led by Alan Woolrych. The content of this session benefits from Alan’s leading research into usability inspection methods and experience of consultancy with a range of local and international companies.