Project Details
Usability Assessment
Timeline
4 Months
Tools
Figma
My Role
Product Designer
UX Researcher
UI Designer
PROJECT OVERVIEW
This report presents a comprehensive evaluation of the usability of the ICCIT department website at the University of Toronto Mississauga (UTM).
Through direct user observation and structured usability testing, several critical usability issues were identified, including an overwhelming information architecture, confusing navigation, and missing content. This analysis highlights the challenges faced by users, particularly first-year students, in accessing vital information. Based on the results, concrete design and structural changes are proposed to improve the accessibility, navigation, and overall user experience of the website.
Introduction
The ICCIT department website is a key resource for students at UTM, providing information on programs, courses, and student services. Despite its importance, the website’s current design presents significant usability challenges. This research aims to identify areas where the website fails to meet the needs of users, particularly new students, and proposes actionable improvements. The focus of this research is to identify pain points related to navigation, information clarity, and user satisfaction.
A preliminary assessment revealed that the website contains multiple redundant navigation bars, overwhelming amounts of content, and an unclear hierarchy. Users, especially first-year students, reported difficulties in locating key information such as program requirements and course details. These issues undermine the website’s purpose, making it difficult for students to effectively navigate and utilize its resources.