User Profile

A User Profile documents characteristics of the user population that are relevant to interface design. It aims to accurately reflect the knowledge, experience, psychological, job, task and physical characteristics of the user audience. This information is empirically collected through user surveys by distributing profile questionnaires to a large sample of end users or potential end users. The collected data is analyzed and results are compiled into a user profile form which serves as the basis for interface design decisions. Applications which assist several different users should have a User Profile generated for each type of user.

An accurate description of intended users is crucial to designing an interface that is suitable for this audience. Designers need to know who they are designing for since different user groups will have varying design needs.

Requirements:

To complete this activity, Client would provide:

• Staff, as needed, that are familiar with the end users' environment,work and characteristics, must be available to provide information about the user audience.
• An individual or team with responsibility for assisting with the development of the user profile. Staff must be available to assist in all aspects of planning and implementing the questionnaire and survey process. Client need not participate in the data analysis or report writing but is invited to participate if desirable. Usability consultant will provide direction on selection of suitable survey audience but client is ultimately responsible for the administration of the surveying process.

Deliverables:

User questionnaires to be distributed during the survey process. A User Profile of each user identified for the application.