Evaluation of usability of gas chromatography systems: Efficiency, effectiveness and satisfaction

Background and aims: Interface analysis methods are used to assess the man-machine interface of a particular system, product or device. Interface analysis methods can be used to assess a number of different aspects associated with a particular interface, including usability and user satisfaction. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the usability level of gas chromatographs that are being used in the laboratory of a petrochemical company. Methods: In this article, the usability of two gas chromatography systems was evaluated by laboratory experts who work with these devices and respect to ISO 9241-11 in which the usability is considered along three dimensions: effectiveness, efficiency and satisfaction. The participants' satisfaction assessed using John Brooke's (1996) "System Usability Scale"(SUS) questionnaire. SPSS 16.0 was used in the analysis of the data. Results: The findings of this study demonstrated that both of the systems have acceptable levels of effectiveness and efficiency. Regarding the participants' satisfaction level, system 2 obtained higher score in compare with system 1. The results indicated that the participants' satisfaction scores are directly related to their work experiences with the systems. Conclusion: To assess the usability of a particular interface it is necessary to either make a comparison with another product or to define a target against which to make a judgment. The 10-item SUS is a fast and reliable tool to assess the usability. © 2015, Tehran University of Medical Sciences and Health Services. All rights reserved.