Brian McCabe
I came to usability through software development. I like understanding why something is difficult to use and working out what would make it easier. That background helps me give recommendations that a design or development team can put to work.
Across my career in software development and digital projects, I’ve worked with more than 1,000 clients. That breadth of experience helps me understand the practical challenges behind a project, from a website that has outgrown its structure to a form that people struggle to complete.
A foundation in software and user interfaces
I studied Computing in Web Development at the Institute of Technology, Sligo, and completed a Master’s in User Interface Software Development at the University of Tampere in Finland. My approach connects interface detail with research questions: can a person understand the choice, predict what will happen and recover when something goes wrong?
If you need qualifications or relevant project references for procurement, we can discuss what is available and include the appropriate information in your proposal.
How the practice works
I lead the practice, from the first discussion through to the findings. Your proposal sets out who will work on the project, what they will do and the research methods we will use.
Usability.ie accepts independent engagements in research, testing and evaluation. We do not offer bundled website implementation, white-label research or subcontract reports. Findings can be taken to your existing product, content, design or development team. You choose who implements a change.
What I look for in a useful finding
- An observable problem tied to a task, rather than a personal preference about how a page looks.
- A clear example of the problem, with the page, device and circumstances recorded.
- An explanation of whether the finding comes from an expert review or from observing people use the service.
- A practical recommendation, a responsible owner and a way to check the result.
See how I approach a review
Our usability reviews include Homegrown, a website we own, an independent review of Hexis and a review of our previous Usability.ie website. Each explains the problems identified and the recommended improvements.
Our fictional examples show how we would approach other usability problems. These are proposed research approaches, separate from completed projects.
Tools support the judgement
Automation can organise material, flag possible inconsistencies and help prepare artefacts. It cannot stand in for a person taking part in research. Proposed findings still need source evidence and review, and synthetic perspectives are never counted as participants. Research-specific tools, access and recording arrangements belong in the agreed engagement plan.