I’m currently completing an online course on Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) via the Interaction Design Foundation. In one lesson, Prof Alan Dix talks about three ‘use’ words within the design side of HCI. It got me thinking that these three words could also apply to learning and development.

If we are to make a difference in our organisations, we need to design and create solutions that are:

Useful

It helps people do something they need to do, when they need to do it. It’s functional and serves a purpose. It produces results for the user and ultimately the organisation.

Ask yourself: Does it have a purpose? Does it solve a problem?

Usable

It’s readily available and conveniently located for easy access when required. It doesn’t add complexity or create confusion for the user.

Ask yourself: Can it be found easily? Is it straightforward to use?

Used

If our solutions are useful and usable, it’s highly likely that they’ll be used. After all, if nobody uses it, then what was the point of the time and effort employed in designing and creating it in the first place?