utilisables

Utilisables is the plural form of the French adjective utilisable, meaning things that can be used or are suitable for use. In English-language discussions the term is rarely used as a standalone concept, but it is often encountered in French or bilingual texts to denote artifacts—such as interfaces, devices, or documents—that meet criteria of usability and practicality.

In design and human-computer interaction, utilisables refer to elements that users can interact with effectively, efficiently and satisfactorily. The concept overlaps with usability, user experience, and accessibility, and it emphasizes that not only should an item perform its function, but it should be approachable and easy to learn, remember, and use. Commonly cited characteristics include clarity, consistency, error tolerance, and readability.

Evaluation of utilisables typically draws on standard usability methods. Usability testing with representative users, heuristic evaluations, and cognitive walkthroughs help identify friction points that hinder use. Accessibility assessments, aligned with standards such as WCAG, ensure that usable products also accommodate diverse user groups, including those with disabilities. The goal is to improve success rates, reduce errors, and increase satisfaction.

The term’s applicability is contextual: what is considered utilisable in one environment or by one user group may not be so in another. As such, it reflects a user-centered approach to design that prioritizes real-world use and measurable outcomes over theoretical functionality alone.

See also Usability, User experience, Accessibility, Human-computer interaction, Product design.