Extensive usability research, including video trials is now available to developers worldwide at betterdesktop.openSUSE.org.

Novell, Inc., yesterday announced the launch of the Better Desktop initiative, a new component of the openSUSE project that provides open source developers with usability testing data and resources that they can use to improve the quality of the Linux desktop.

Novell is releasing primary desktop research, including video footage and analysis of usability tests, at betterdesktop.openSUSE.org. Instructions for constructing and operating a low-cost usability lab will also be provided. With Novell's contributions through betterdesktop.openSUSE.org, open source developers now have the information they need to refine applications, including adjustments to menus, screen layouts, dialog boxes, and even the icons and colors of a user interface.

openSUSE.org is a community-based effort that involves developers worldwide in the review, testing and development of SUSE Linux with the goal of making it accessible to end users, not just developers.

"Novell's Linux desktop usability test results represent a significant addition to the resources available to open source developers who are working to enhance the Linux desktop," said Jan Muehlig, Founder of OpenUsability.org.