A website usability evaluation is conducted by a usability expert. Such an evaluation identifies problems with the website that impede visitor’s ability to achieve their desired tasks on the website. A website usability evaluation is the least expensive and most popular form of usability analysis because it does not require test participants, computer laboratories or expensive equipment and software. A usability consultant simply runs an standard analysis on the website interface. He then completes a checklist from recognised usability criteria, documenting usability strengths and weaknesses. This data is then utilised to create recommendations on how to improve website usability.

Usability evaluators often spend tens of thousands of hours doing evaluations for clients; so the time they spend on each evaluation can be very cost-effective and efficient.

Website usability evaluation was pioneered by Jakob Neilsen and Rolf Molich about 1990. This method of usability analysis has only become mainstream in the last 5 years, as companies now realise usability is a significant competitive advantage in the jungle of difficult-to-use websites on the Internet. And, investment in a website usability evaluation normally pays for itself in increased website traffic, customer loyalty and ultimately greater sales for the website owners.

Consider a website usability evaluation for your website; and you, too, will realise an impressive return on investment and a happier clientele.

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