The Usable Times 5™ method measures how well a design meets your expectations.

1. Orientation: "Where am I?"

Orientation cues tell you where you "are" and where you're "going." Screen interfaces must be highly self-explanatory so users can move through tasks with confidence.

2. Permission: "Did I request that?"

Permission consists of two important components: privacy and uninterrupted "flow" as you move through a task. Clear privacy policies are critical. It's equally important to restrict popups and error messages. Bottom line: give the user what he came to see or do, without interruption.

3. Interactivity: "What can I do here?"

Interactivity cues must explain themselves. You see pictures, blue hypertext links, text entry fields, and control buttons before you see text. Why? Because you want to interact with the screen.

4. Relevance: "Does this matter to me?"

Relevance cues provide a "starting point" on computer screens. Can you see the three most important functions immediately? Is the useful information you want within view? Does the search function work? You expect high relevance without scrolling.

5. Speed: "How long will this take me?"

Speed cues tell you how long you should expect a task to take. Has the Web site been tested in a challenging real-life setting? Can you navigate to highly desired items within three clicks? Can you opt out of animation, video, or audio? Do you know how long it will take to fill out an online form?

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Based on hundreds of in-person lab tests, the Usable Times 5™ method was developed to evaluate the effectiveness of your screen-based information.