Conceptual Design: Cornerstone of Usability

The conceptual model or metaphor of a software user interface (UI) (for example, an artist's palette used by commercial drawing applications) contributes greatly to a UI's ease of learning and ease of use. When that model is unclear, does not match users' expectations, or is absent entirely, it is a major hurdle for even the most internally consistent interface to overcome. This article suggests why conceptual design is so often neglected by development teams and presents a five-step process for developing a sound conceptual model for a software application. The crux of the process is the development of multiple models and low-fidelity prototypes. There are also recommendations describing how technical communicators can reinforce and support conceptual design on their projects. Last, the author depicts how organizations committed to usability ensure that conceptual design is given the attention it deserves.