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Usability and User/Human-Centered Design are Cost Effective

The basic premise of user/human-centered design is that the system should support the user not vice versa.  Too often, system design focuses on incorporating new technology or on hardware and software functionality with limited consideration of how the operator or maintainer will actually use the system.

This often results in modifying systems at the end of development or even after installation when it becomes apparent that the user cannot access system functionality in a timely, effective manner.  Retrofit at this point is costly.  Also, because the system is nearing completion or has been completed, design solutions are limited and less effective.

Emphasizing users' needs and assessing usability throughout design and development can help achieve program cost, schedule, and delivery targets with a user-acceptable and operationally suitable system that fulfills organizational goals.  Benefits will continue to accrue throughout the system's life cycle:

  • An easy-to-use and understand system reduces training, maintenance and support costs.

  • An effective system fulfills organizational objectives and yields improved operational efficiency, productivity, and customer service.

  • A system that supports the user and achieves high user satisfaction leads to increased job satisfaction, improved safety and health, and a reduction in absenteeism and turnover.

Graph showing reduction of errors, increase in productivity, and a decrease in cost
Human-centered design reduces operational costs.

 
 

 
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