Nonusability

Nonusability is a term used to describe the intentional design of a product, system, or service to be difficult, frustrating, or impossible to use. It stands in direct contrast to usability, which aims for ease of interaction and efficiency. Nonusability is rarely an accidental outcome; rather, it is a deliberate choice made for specific, often negative, purposes.

One common application of nonusability is in digital security, particularly in the context of malware or ransomware. By making it difficult for users to access or operate their systems, attackers can achieve their objectives, such as demanding a ransom. Similarly, some user interfaces might be designed with nonusability in mind to deter casual access or to create an exclusive experience for a select group of users. This can be seen in certain legacy systems or highly specialized professional tools where the learning curve is intentionally steep.

In some contexts, nonusability can be a form of protest or social commentary. Artists or activists might create intentionally difficult-to-use objects or systems to highlight perceived flaws or injustices in existing technologies or societal structures. The inherent difficulty then becomes part of the message. While generally considered undesirable in product development, understanding nonusability can offer insights into user behavior, security vulnerabilities, and the critical role of accessible design in creating effective and ethical solutions.