History Recognizing the need for a practical-oriented organization dedicated to enhancing the skills and professional success of usability professionals, Janice James created the Usability Professionals' Association in 1991. The original membership of 50 has grown today to over 1,600 members. This conference is a leading forum for the exchange of ideas among practitioners in the field of usability. The conference is oriented toward the practical so attendees can take ideas back to their offices and put them to work immediately to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their usability practices. The UPA conference offers a multitude of workshops, tutorials, presentations, business case studies, poster sessions, and exhibits to its attendees.
Members attend at special discounted fees.
An annual membership directory is produced and lists all contact information including email and web site addresses. A special Consultants section lists vendors, consultants and resources of interest to usability professionals. Professional Membership A Professional Membership is available to people practicing or conducting research or teaching in a usability-related profession. Professional members may serve on the UPA Board of Directors and hold officer positions.