Extended Framework for Usability Testing in e-Navigation Systems

The paper presents the framework of usability testing of Electronic chart display and information system (ECDIS) equipment based on the International Maritime Organization (IMO)’s Guidelines on Software Quality Assurance and Human-centred Design for e-Navigation. By incorporating the eye tracking techniques into the procedure it was possible to measure the visual attention distribution and the cognitive work-load. The presented method could be used to evaluate usability of every e-navigation system, which is necessary to ensure that the seafarers are able to successfully perform primary operations of systems upgraded with e-navigation functions, regardless of the type and specifications of the system and users’ knowledge and experience with the system. The initial results are presented and discussed as the study is still ongoing.