An empirical study of factors affecting the perceived usability of websites for student Internet users
This study analysed Student Internet Users (SIUs) perception of Web usability. Adopting a user testing method, seven Web Usability Factors (WUFs) were tested for their significance in affecting the ease of use of website. Several elements in websites were also tested for their significance in affecting the WUFs. Result shows the most significant WUF is related to the aesthetic appeal of a website, i.e., Use of Colour and Font. However, it was found that most Web developers are not focusing on this important WUF. Elements such as site map, site search, product image catalogue and others were also found to positively affect SIUs perception of the WUFs. The results presented in this paper can be used as guidelines for designing usable websites for SIUs.
empirical study perceived usability internet users user testing method ease of use interface design web usability guidelines