College of Liberal Arts
LUCIA

Who We Are

The Lab for Usability, Communication, Interaction, and Accessibility (LUCIA) is a technical & professional communication and media-based research laboratory. We use usability and User Experience (UX) methods to research and evaluate various media: physical products, websites, digital devices, prototypes, software, and even typefaces for industry and business clients both nationwide and inside Auburn University. The lab is co-directed by Dr. Ed Youngblood, Professor and Director of Media Studies in the School of Communication and Journalism, and Dr. Derek G. Ross, Hargis Professor of Writing Studies in the Department of English.

 

What is usability, accessibility, UX, communication, & interaction? 

Usability refers to whether a product, artifact, website, etc. is easy to use, and whether it helps users meaningfully complete their tasks, goals, and/or activities effectively. Interaction, on the other hand, is about how users interact with a product. It focuses on making interactions (e.g., swipes, clicks, visual feedback) instinctual and easy to understand. In contrast, accessibility usually focuses on making the Internet more accessible for those with disabilities (e.g., hearing or vision loss). However, it also applies to physical product design. Collectively, these factors encompass a user’s holistic experience with a product, service, etc., what is called User Experience (UX). UX emphasizes understanding and measuring users’ emotional reactions to products.