Usability and UX

Usability shows how easy it is for someone to use a product to reach their goal. User experience (UX) is wider. It includes every part of the interaction; from the first time someone learns about it to feeling trust and being happy with it over time.

Example

A website can work technically. For example, a person using a screen reader can move around it and send in a form. But the experience is bad if error messages are confusing, the layout is messy and the process feels unfriendly. Accessibility is needed for a good user experience, but it is not enough by itself.

Key point

Usability and accessibility are connected, but they are not the same. A product can work well for most people but still be hard to use for people with disabilities. Good UX design must treat accessibility as a necessity, not just an extra feature.

Body of Knowledge (opens in new window)