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Universal Usability

In the first webinar of the series we will be presenting a broad introduction to PSDI.

About the Webinar​

This Webinar, presented by Dr. Cerys Willoughby, explores the fundamental principles of usability and accessibility, emphasizing their vital role in designing effective and user-friendly tools. We’ll address the diverse needs of different user groups and how accommodating these needs enhances software usability for everyone. Through this webinar, you’ll discover best practices and design guidelines, illustrated with examples of both successful and flawed design practices.

Abstract​

The significance of code and software in scientific research is rapidly growing. With the rise of open science and the FAIR principles, researchers are no longer developing tools solely for their own use but are now also required to share their code and software along with their data for validation and reuse by others. In the past, it was often acceptable to develop tools that were complex and challenging to use, assuming that users would possess advanced software engineering skills, be prepared to navigate steep learning curves, and be capable of working around bugs in the code. In the present, such expectations are unreasonable, and there are numerous compelling reasons to create user-friendly tools and software for the scientific community. Usable software not only leads to wider adoption, but also increases trust in both the software and the data it generates. The scientific community is large and diverse, with a wide range of needs to consider to ensure research tools, platforms, and methods are accessible to everyone, regardless of their abilities. Designing with all users in mind not only fosters inclusivity and enhances participation but also benefits everyone. By prioritizing universal usability, researchers can ensure their tools have a wider impact and contribute more effectively to the scientific community.

This Webinar explores the fundamental principles of usability and accessibility, emphasizing their vital role in designing effective and user-friendly tools. We’ll address the diverse needs of different user groups and how accommodating these needs enhances software usability for everyone. Through this webinar, you’ll discover best practices and design guidelines, illustrated with examples of both successful and flawed design practices.

We will explore user research techniques that help you better understand your users and gather valuable insights into their needs. Additionally, you’ll learn about various methods of usability testing, including prototyping and iterative design, which allow for faster feedback on your interfaces. We’ll also discuss essential tools and resources for evaluating the usability and accessibility of your designs, and examine emerging trends in universal usability

Biography​

Dr. Cerys Willoughby is a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Southampton. Cerys has been collaborating with the School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering at Southampton for nearly 20 years after working as a usability expert for IBM. She has had involvement in various projects focusing on how technology can be used to support researchers in the physical sciences. Her research interests include recordkeeping and process recording in science, digital notebooks and ELNs, data management and curation, metadata capture, researcher behaviour, and storytelling in science.

Watch the recording​

You can watch this recording via our You Tube channel.

What to do next​

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