Frequently Asked Questions
Get quick answers to FAQs on Usability Mapping® approach, document engineering services, and U-MAP IT® software for UX-compliant document solutions.
On This Page
Please click the FAQs topic to jump to the information.
What is Usability Mapping®? How does it relate to Document Engineering and UX?
Usability Mapping® is a document engineering method.
It uses principles from cognitive and behavioural science and UX design to create procedures, standards, and guidelines that are easy to understand and use.
It treats documents like usable interfaces, ensuring content works effectively under high-pressure work conditions.
How is Usability Mapping® different from technical writing or plain language?
It goes beyond grammar and tone. Usability Mapping engineers layout, flow, and logic, optimizing documents for how people read, decide, and act.
Why is Usability Mapping® considered a better approach?
Grounded in cognitive science and real-world testing, it consistently reduces errors, improves comprehension, and boosts performance, especially in high-risk or regulated settings.
Who is currently using Usability Mapping®?
Used in healthcare, oil & gas, energy, and aviation, especially in safety-critical sectors.
What kind of documents does it work on?
Usability Mapping® works on a wide range of documents, including guidelines, procedures, processes, standards, and policies. It classifies and engineers them to precise specifications to guide safe and effective use.
How do your document engineering services work?
We audit your materials, redesign for clarity and usability, then validate. Our team leads the process with input from your Subject Matter Experts (SMEs). Training is optional.
Do you create the documents for us, or train us to do it?
Both. We can deliver the work or train your team to do it in-house.
What is the role of the Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) in the process?
SMEs provide the content. We handle structure, clarity, and usability.
How is pricing structured, and how does it compare to traditional technical writing?
We use value-based pricing, calculated per word. Our UX Usability documents are built to exact standards and produced faster, so costs are usually about 50% lower than traditional technical writing.
Example:
• Word-based: 1,500-word document at $1.05/word = $1,575
• Time-based alternative: 18 hours × $90 = $1,620
This makes costs predictable and clear for each document.
What’s the process for starting a project?
Start by booking a discovery call, we’ll assess your needs, suggest a fit, and map next steps.
What does U-MAP IT® do?
U-MAP IT® is a Microsoft Word plugin for trained Usability Mapping® professionals. It lets you easily insert formatted building blocks, such as margin titles, QA blocks, and numbered steps. This helps you create usable, UX-compliant documents efficiently while saving time and effort.
Which platforms and systems does it support?
U-MAP IT® is currently exclusive to Microsoft Word.
What programming languages or formats does it support?
U-MAP IT® supports Microsoft Word (.docx), PDF, touchpad, and audio formats. HTML and other integrations are under development. No programming knowledge or languages are required to use the tool.
Does it include features or automation?
Yes. U-MAP IT® includes automated features such as UX analysis (including reading grade level and risk ranking), as well as formatting and UX compliance checks.
Is there a free trial available?
All participants of a Usability Mapping Foundation Course receive a complimentary 90-day license to U-MAP IT®.
What kind of support is available?
Technical support is available Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM MST. You can email us for assistance, or we can arrange virtual meetings to address your questions.