Chapter One — 1.1 Background to the Study

Heuristic Evaluation Methods has become one of the more actively explored innovations in the design of modern inventory management systems, promising gains in efficiency and reliability that legacy, largely manual approaches have struggled to deliver.

Despite this potential, many existing inventory management systems were not originally designed with heuristic evaluation methods in mind, resulting in persistent gaps in perceived usability that limit their overall effectiveness. This study examines how Heuristic Evaluation Methods can be applied to help close that gap.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Existing approaches to perceived usability within inventory management systems remain largely reactive and fragmented, with little systematic use of heuristic evaluation methods despite its demonstrated value elsewhere. This study addresses the resulting gap by designing and evaluating a solution built specifically around heuristic evaluation methods.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To design and implement a heuristic evaluation methods-based approach to improving perceived usability in inventory management systems.
2. To evaluate the effectiveness of Heuristic Evaluation Methods in enhancing perceived usability within inventory management systems.
3. To identify the key requirements and constraints relevant to deploying heuristic evaluation methods in this context.
4. To assess user and stakeholder perception of the resulting system.

1.4 Research Questions

1. How can heuristic evaluation methods be applied to improve perceived usability in inventory management systems?
2. How effective is Heuristic Evaluation Methods at enhancing perceived usability within inventory management systems?
3. What requirements and constraints are relevant to deploying heuristic evaluation methods in this context?
4. How do users and stakeholders perceive the resulting system?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study is significant to software developers and system architects seeking practical guidance on applying Heuristic Evaluation Methods within inventory management systems. It is equally relevant to organizations that rely on these systems, offering a reference point for evaluating whether such an investment is justified, and it adds to the growing body of work on heuristic evaluation methods applications in UI/UX design.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The study is limited to the design, implementation, and evaluation of a heuristic evaluation methods-based approach to improving perceived usability within inventory management systems. Reflecting its BSc-level scope, it does not extend to a full commercial rollout or long-term post-implementation review beyond the study period.