Enterprise applications and their usability

Customers often believe that when it comes to enterprise applications, usability does not matter. They will still make their employees use the software, no matter how convenient and easy to understand it is.

Is this true?

No one doubts that if an application is developed with the aim of selling it directly to end-users, usability is vital. Otherwise, the product is unlikely to be popular with the end-users. Unless it is quite unique and they have no choice, but that is an exceptional case in today’s business environment.

And what with enterprise applications? Does convenience for use matter, if they intend to impose it anyway?

Let's start with the fact that people hate change. Yes, they don’t like it. Changes in the workflow (and this includes the introduction of new software) always run the risk of encountering resistance from employees. Significant changes can reduce the motivation of employees and increase staff turnover - some people simply resign instead of working with a new program. Of course, not all the changes are so fatal, but it is still possible to win employee support and reduce resistance.

If the application is inconvenient and unclear, if the wishes of those who will use it every day are not taken into account, this resistance will be stronger than usual. This can lead to a delay and even sabotage of the process of introducing new software.

In addition, it is worth remembering that the introduction of a new instrument is not an end in itself. Usually, it is designed to increase productivity, save time and money. If employees have a difficult time using the new software, if they spend more time with this activity then they did before the system was implemented this will reduce their efficiency.

So, we can say with confidence that the ease of use and the how long it takes to learn a new system are important factors in its successful implementation in the company.

Victoria Slinyavchuk
Software Testing Consultant