Heuristic Evaluation of a User Interface for a Game-Based Simulation
Abstract
This research sought to estimate the level of usability, to identify any problem areas, and to provide redesign recommendations that may improve the usability of future designs of Forterra's Online Interactive Virtual Environment (OLIVE) system as a training tool. Game interface usability might have an effect on the success of game-based simulation training programs. Three usability researchers performed a usability heuristic evaluation, documenting each problem identified, as well as the recommended solution to these problems. Three areas out of the ten usability heuristics were identified as potentially problematic: User Control and Freedom Recognition, Recognition Rather than Recall, and Help and Documentation. A number of design recommendations have been identified which should improve usability and task performance using these systems. The data can serve to enhance the existing software by incorporating additional program requirements, and can also provide an easy-to-use checklist for DoD personnel, private contractors, and researchers interested in the design and testing of game-based simulation for team training.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA475400
Entities
People
- Amanda M. Howey
- Christian J. Jerome
- Deborah R. Billings
Organizations
- U.S. Army Research Institute for the Behavioral and Social Sciences