W3C Site-wide Findings Summary
While the focus of the usability test was on the WAI sub-site, several of the findings apply to much of the W3C site. The following is a summary of the findings that may be of particular relevance to those designing any W3C Web page.
Overview
In general the participants were pleased with the content on the Web site, but were frustrated by how difficult it was for them to find information. In addition, the participants expressed concern with the technical nature of the information itself, stating that it was difficult to comprehend, and that they were concerned it was impenetrable to "someone with less expertise in Web development."
Findings
1: Participants uniformly stated that the Web site was "overwhelming" and that using it was "like walking into a fire hose." More about Finding 1 >>
4: Participants' ability to locate task-specific information was significantly hindered by the "front matter" at the start (and close) of the guidelines documents, the checklist, and techniques documents.More about Finding 4 >>
7: Participants frequently sought out or stated the importance of a "good, solid overview" of [the issue and/or specification]. More about Finding 7 >>
10: Participants stated that the Web site "needed a home button." More about Finding 10 >>
11: Participants' navigation through the Web site involved significant use of the browser's "Back" button. More about Finding 11 >>
27: Participants stated that Web site nomenclature was inconsistent. More about Finding 27 >>
33: Participants described the Website as "bland" and "non-profit" looking. More about Finding 33 >>
34: Participants stated that the Web site was hampered by stylistic inconsistencies. More about Finding 34 >>
35: Participants struggled with issues a style guide might address. More about Finding 35 >>
36: Participants found the presentation of the WAI and W3C Logos confusing. More about Finding 36 >>
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