(“Ergonomics of human-system interaction — Part 11: Usability: Definitions and concepts”) replaces the earlier 1998 version. It provides an updated, internationally standardized framework for defining and understanding usability in system, product, or service design. The standard shifts from a narrow “ease of use” perspective to a broader, context-dependent definition that emphasizes outcomes of use (effectiveness, efficiency, satisfaction) within specific contexts of use .
Let's break down the key elements of the usability definition:
| Standard | Relationship | |----------|--------------| | (human-centered design) | Uses 9241-11’s definition as the usability outcome of the design process. | | ISO 25066 (systems & software quality measurement) | Provides metrics for effectiveness, efficiency, satisfaction. | | ISO 9241-110 (interaction principles) | Defines dialogue principles that support usability. | iso 9241-11 usability definition 2018
Extent to which a system, product or service can be used by specified users to achieve specified goals with effectiveness, efficiency and satisfaction in a specified context of use.
By prioritizing usability, organizations can: Let's break down the key elements of the
For years, professionals quoted the 1998 definition—usability as "effectiveness, efficiency, and satisfaction." The 2018 revision retains this core but wraps it in a context that is far more applicable to modern digital products.
Anyone serious about moving beyond surface-level design into measurable human-computer interaction. | Extent to which a system, product or
According to ISO 9241-11:2018, usability is defined as:
It aligns usability with the concept of "universal design," stating that a system cannot be considered highly usable if it excludes a significant portion of the population due to disability or impairment.