A survey of usability capability maturity models: implications for practice and research

• Published in: Behaviour & information technology Vol. 25; no. 3; pp. 263 - 282
• Main Authors: Jokela, Timo, Siponen, Mikko, Hirasawa, Naotake, Earthy, Jonathan
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: London Taylor & Francis 01-05-2006
• Subjects: Exact sciences and technology; Information and communication sciences; Information retrieval systems. Information and document management system; Information science. Documentation; Information technology; Sciences and techniques of general use; System design and modelling; Usability; User friendly systems; System evaluation; Ergonomics; Information system; User centered; System design; Software; Models; Usability; Comparative study
• ISSN: 0144-929X; 1362-3001
• DOI: 10.1080/01449290500168079

Improving the position and effectiveness of user-centred design (UCD) in software and product development is a challenge in many companies. One step towards improvements is to carry out a usability capability maturity (UCM) assessment to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of a development organisation in UCD. While several diverse UCM models have been introduced, little research has been published in the public domain on these models. The paper aims to fill this gap by analysing the main features of the models. The results show that most models represent different approaches - although some of them have the same roots - meaning that understanding one model is not enough to understand the basics of another model. All models can be used for examining the status of UCD in individual development projects. In addition, models provide various means for assessment of the status of UCD in other organisational areas. The level of documentation of models varies a lot, and very few empirical research results exist. Based on the results, implications for practice and research are suggested.