AIR Framework: Assess, Identify and Remediate the Usability of Graphical User Interfaces

We present the Graphical User Interface Test Assess and Remediate (GUITAR) framework to integrate disparate tools and manual non-computer based methods for usability assessment along with providing methods for assisting in the remediation of problems discovered. GUITAR is multifaceted approach to increasing usability by leveraging integrated tools and both automated and manual assessment strategies along with external environmental conditions data to identify and assist in the remediation of issues before they are encountered in the field. GUITAR is fully extensible, so that 3rd parties can add their own tools to GUITAR. GUITAR is designed to incorporate traditional usability assessment tools (e.g., GOMS tools, video recording tools, etc.), graphical user interface design tools (e.g., LiquidApps, Visual Studio), and allow creation of data capture methods for non-computer based assessment methods. Once issues are captured GUITAR utilizes previous issue solutions and guidelines to assist in remediation of discovered issues. GUITAR focuses on using commonly available technologies to maximize its adoption.