Therefore, the first week of each engagement includes an analysis of work being done at the company and software currently being used. This presentation will include a brief demonstration of the template in an online format, which gives programmers easy access to the guidelines within their work environment. During the second year, the group worked in conjunction with two local companies to develop a workshop. As work with the Usability Services group progressed, some clients began to realize that standards are not enough, and that HCI techniques must be integrated with the software lifecycle. The workshop stresses the process involved in user interface design, including steps such as user analysis and usability testing, and is customized for the company's methodology and standards.
Clients own the workshop and can teach it as needed, making it highly accessible.
The Usability Services group has encountered, and continues to encounter, many hurdles. Compuware-Madison was not initially convinced that clients would see the value of usability services, until several projects had been successfully completed, and led to other business. Sometimes GUI design is mentioned but this is interpreted to mean that the consultant has worked on a GUI project, not that they have HCI training. The group hopes to introduce Usability Analyst as a job title or skillset that is readily recognized and requested specifically by clients. Often both consulting companies and clients do not perceive HCI skills as a specific skillset that must be learned, developed, and maintained.