What is BS EN ISO 13873:2010

BS EN ISO 13873:2010 is a professional technical specification that provides guidelines for the use of human-computer interaction standards in designing and evaluating software interfaces. It offers a systematic approach to ensure that software products are user-friendly, efficient, and effective.

The Purpose of BS EN ISO 13873:2010

The purpose of BS EN ISO 13873:2010 is to enhance user experience and satisfaction by establishing requirements for interface design and evaluation. It sets out principles, methods, and techniques that help developers create intuitive and accessible software interfaces, regardless of the complexity of the application or the user's expertise.

The Key Principles of BS EN ISO 13873:2010

There are several key principles outlined in BS EN ISO 13873:2010 that software developers should consider when designing interfaces:

Visibility of system status: The software should provide clear and continuous feedback to users about their actions and the current state of the system.

Match between system and real world: The software interface should use language and concepts familiar to users, making it easier for them to understand and operate.

User control and freedom: Users should have the ability to easily navigate and recover from errors without suffering any adverse consequences.

Consistency and standards: The software should follow standard conventions and be consistent throughout its interface to minimize cognitive load for users.

Error prevention: The interface should be designed in a way that prevents errors in the first place, rather than relying solely on error messages and correction.

Flexibility and efficiency of use: The software should accommodate different levels of user expertise and allow for shortcuts and efficient operations.

Benefits of Using BS EN ISO 13873:2010

BS EN ISO 13873:2010 brings several benefits to software developers, users, and organizations:

Improved user satisfaction and productivity: By implementing the principles and guidelines outlined in BS EN ISO 13873:2010, software interfaces become more user-friendly and intuitive, resulting in higher user satisfaction and increased productivity.

Reduced risk of errors: The emphasis on error prevention in interface design helps minimize user errors, leading to a more reliable and robust software product.

Greater accessibility: BS EN ISO 13873:2010 promotes the inclusion of diverse user groups by providing guidelines for creating accessible interfaces that consider the needs of individuals with disabilities.

Alignment with international standards: Adhering to BS EN ISO 13873:2010 ensures compatibility and conformity with other international human-computer interaction standards, facilitating interoperability.

Cost savings: Following established best practices and principles from BS EN ISO 13873:2010 can reduce the need for extensive usability testing and post-release modifications, saving both time and resources.

In conclusion, BS EN ISO 13873:2010 is a valuable resource for software developers looking to create user-friendly and efficient interfaces. It provides guidelines, principles, and methods to enhance the overall usability of software applications, leading to improved user experiences and increased productivity. By following these standards, developers can meet user expectations, reduce errors, and foster greater accessibility.