An Empirical Study of Open Source Software Usability

TitleAn Empirical Study of Open Source Software Usability
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2011
AuthorsRaza, A, Capretz, LF, Ahmed, F
Refereed DesignationRefereed
Secondary TitleInternational Journal of Open Source Software and Processes
Volume3
Issue1
Pagination1 - 16
ISSN Number1942-3934
KeywordsSurvey
Abstract

Recent years have seen a sharp increase in the use of open source projects by common novice users; Open Source Software (OSS) is thus no longer a reserved arena for software developers and computer gurus. Although user-centered designs are gaining popularity in OSS, usability is still not considered one of the prime objectives in many design scenarios. This paper analyzes industry users’ perception of usability factors, including understandability, learnability, operability, and attractiveness on OSS usability. The research model of this empirical study establishes the relationship between the key usability factors and OSS usability from industrial perspective. In order to conduct the study, a data set of 105 industry users is included. The results of the empirical investigation indicate the significance of the key factors for OSS usability.

DOI10.4018/jossp.2011010101
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