Designing a better world for all

World Usability Day, celebrated annually, unites communities worldwide in the shared mission of creating accessible, inclusive, and effective designs that improve the quality of life for everyone. Established in 2005 by the Usability Professionals Association (now the User Experience Professionals Association), the day raises awareness of the importance of user-centered design, accessibility, and empathy in technology and beyond.

This day serves as a global call to action, encouraging designers, developers, engineers, and policymakers to prioritize usability and human-centered approaches in their work. Whether designing digital products, transportation systems, healthcare solutions, or public spaces, the emphasis is on making systems accessible and beneficial to the widest range of people, regardless of age, ability, or background. Good usability ensures that technology and systems work for all, fostering inclusivity, productivity, and satisfaction.

Each year, World Usability Day highlights a specific theme related to usability and design. Topics have included healthcare, sustainable development, and digital ethics, which spark dialogue and inspire solutions for real-world problems. For instance, in focusing on accessibility in healthcare, professionals explore how digital platforms can simplify patient access to records, scheduling, and information, especially for those with disabilities or limited digital skills.

Communities celebrate World Usability Day through workshops, seminars, and hackathons, bringing people together to learn, share ideas, and collaborate on projects that promote usability. These events highlight the value of empathy, understanding that when designs are accessible to everyone, society as a whole benefits.