Usability testing of a web-based tool for managing open shifts on nursing units

Using observational and interview approaches, we evaluated the usability of a web-based communication tool that allows managers to announce open work shifts and staff to request work shifts. We used Morae software to record screen shots and study participants' (4 Nurse Managers, 3 Registered Nurses and 3 Patient Care Technicians) utterances during system use. Although features and functions used and patterns of use varied by role and individual, all participants found the system easy to use. Use of a particular function depended upon how effective the user perceived the function to be for the task that they wished to accomplish. User satisfaction was achieved when an effective function also allowed them to meet their task goal efficiently.