Usability & UX FAQ
What is usability and why is it important?
Usability is how easy and efficient it is for users to achieve their goals with a product or system. Good usability means fewer errors, faster task completion, and happier users. In healthcare and regulated industries, usability is critical for safety, compliance, and user satisfaction.
What is user experience (UX)?
User experience (UX) encompasses all aspects of a user's interaction with a product, service, or company. It includes usability, accessibility, visual design, and emotional impact. Great UX leads to loyal customers and better business outcomes.
What is usability testing?
Usability testing is a process where real users attempt tasks with your product while experts observe and analyze their experience. It helps identify pain points, errors, and opportunities for improvement. In healthcare, usability testing is required for EHR Safety-Enhanced Design (SED) and FDA 510(k) human factors validation.
What is Safety-Enhanced Design (SED)?
Safety-Enhanced Design (SED) is a set of requirements from the ONC for EHR and health IT products. SED (including ยง170.315(b)(11)) ensures that user-centered design and summative usability testing are applied to critical features, improving safety and compliance.
What is human factors validation testing?
Human factors validation testing is a regulatory requirement for medical devices (FDA 510(k)). It demonstrates that your device can be used safely and effectively by intended users, in real-world scenarios, and meets standards like IEC 62366 and NISTIR 7742.
How do you work with clients outside the Washington DC area?
We work with clients across the USA and internationally using remote workshops, virtual usability testing, and digital collaboration tools. Our process is flexible and designed for distributed teams.
How do I get started with usability or UX consulting?
Contact us for a free consultation! We'll discuss your goals, challenges, and recommend a tailored approach. Visit our contact page or check out our services for more details.