Unusable Software Is Useless, Part 1

Usability has a significant impact on the success of software-centric systems and products. For example, if a software system doesn´t support end users in their daily work, it won´t be used productively. Likewise, if developers don´t understand their software´s architecture, architecture drift and complex code are obvious consequences. Ultimately, failing to design usable software could seriously degrade a project´s ability to deliver on time, budget, functionality, and quality. In the next two installments of this column, I explore selected yet essential activities, methods, and techniques that support pragmatic architects in the development of systems for use. This particular installment focuses on operational usability; I focus on two aspects that significantly contribute to designing systems that are accepted by customers and end users: business suitability and ergonomics.