Noun
The state or condition of being usable.
The degree to which an object, device, software application, etc. is easy to use with no specific training.
Source: en.wiktionary.orgIn the consumer economy taste is not the criterion in the marketing of expensive soft drinks, usability is not the primary criterion in the marketing of home and office appliances. We are surrounded with objects of desire, not objects of use. Donald Norman
Beauty and brains, pleasure and usability - they should go hand in hand. Donald Norman
Usability is like love. You have to care, you have to listen, and you have to be willing to change. You'll make mistakes along the way, but that's where growth and forgiveness come in. Jeffrey Zeldman
Elements of empirical language are manipulated in their rigidity, as if they were elements of a true and revealed language. The empirical usability of the sacred ceremonial words makes both the speaker and listener believe in their corporeal presence. Theodor Adorno
"It probably won a prize" is a disparaging remark in this book. Why? Because prizes tend to be given for some aspects of design, to the neglect of all others-usually including usability. Donald Norman
I don't think there are as many usability issues as there are tactical or strategic decisions related to whether incorporating social networking into your site is going to help or hurt. Steve Krug