Software writers try to speak a language users understand

Article Abstract:

A growing trend in the computer software industry is usability testing, during which ordinary users attempt to use new software. The experiences of these users is analyzed and incorporated into the programs, resulting in software that is more user friendly, and thus more competitive. Usability testing is a relatively new concept to software developers, some of whom believe that software should be as difficult to use as it was to create. Usability Sciences Corp, a new company that specializes in usability testing, provides services to many software publishers. The company's experiences with users underscores the need for the right word to describe functions to users. People mystified by terminology that seems straightforward to developers will not be able to use the software, even if implementing the command is simple. In addition to creating hostility in the users, the phenomenon increases the number of calls placed to support personnel, which raises the cost of support to the software publisher.

Computer related services, not elsewhere classified, Services, Software Design, Product Development, User Studies, Usability Sciences Corp.

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Technology, economics and ego conspire to make software difficult to use

Article Abstract:

Software designers predict that difficult-to-use software packages will evolve into simplified programs that can be used on computers controlled by pens. While simple software might entice more users to buy computers, designers contend that ease-of-use in software can hinder sales because it usually is not very complex. Learning how to use a software application can be frustrating because most knowledge cannot be transferred to subsequent programs; executives speculate that for every new software package a company buys, each user will require a week of classes, and training will cost $500. Apple requires its developers to use consistent commands for a variety of programs so users know which commands to use, but the software for IBM microcomputers does not follow any standards. Lotus development Corp sued a competitor when it tried to emulate the commands of Lotus 1-2-3.

Technological forecasting, User training, Future of Computing

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Software helps managers fill in workers' hours

Article Abstract:

Campbell Software's $2,000 Staffworks software package automates the workforce scheduling process for a variety of businesses. The software helps managers automate the process of scheduling a mix of full-time and part-time employees. Users of the software report the scheduling task that often took managers a day a week can now be accomplished with ease. One user reports that Staffworks cut the number of overstaffed hours by 92 percent and the number of understaffed hours were reduced by 64 percent. Other software packages that handle staff scheduling include Power UP Software's $99 Working Hours, and Newport Systems' $895 Who Works When.

Product introduction, Work hours, Human resource management, product announcement, Software Packages, Personnel Management, Scheduling Applications, Campbell Software Inc., StaffWorks (Computer program)

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