The Institute for Dynamic Educational Advancement just released a report with observations on web user usability expectations – observations range from “like, DUH!” to a more thoughtful “Hmmm”.

like, DUH:

  • Easy access to complete information is key to visitor enjoyment.
  • Good visual design and up-to-date information are critical.
  • Visitors want information fast
  • Visitors still need handholding.

Hmmm:

  • Designers underestimate the thresholds for an effective site
  • Visitors want a broad range of topics.
  • Designers are overly optimistic about visitors’ ability to maintain orientation.
  • Visitors point to the lack of breadth and depth of site content as causing an “Information Gap.”