Unlike web accessibility which impacts directly upon disabled users, web usability affects all users, and can be defined as a measure of how easy it is for a generic site visitor to carry out a task such as finding a given piece of information or buying a certain product.

• Consistent placement of navigation and page structure
• People read left to right, top to bottom
• People scan copy looking for relevant links [headings and bulletpoints are good devices . . .]
• Therefore: most important screen area = top left
• Create a logical screen hierarchy [following the above points]
• Clearly title all your content, and pages
• Keep your content concise
• Features supported by images can be very eye catching
• Use general language [avoid technical jargon where possible]
• Consider what your audience are likely to be looking for
• Users are impatient. Design for a 2-10 second maximum download. Reuse header graphics so they can load from cache. Avoid excessive scrolling
• Monitor traffic through your site. Which pages pique user interest? Which pages make users leave? Adjust your site accordingly

The best way to ensure usability is to test your designs with real people