Why Usability?

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Web site usability touches many aspects of the university - the educational mission, marketing, etc.
Usable sites increase productivity. When users retrieve information efficiently it avoids wasted time.
Usable sites reduce support costs. Unusable sites require costly telephone or email support, or user training.
When users experience satisfaction instead of frustration when interacting with a site they gain confidence and trust in a valuable resource.
When users are happy they continue to use the site and become advocates, enhancing the reputation and user base of the site.

Web Site Usability 101