Usability of WeRise in SubSaharan Africa: The case of Uganda

The weather-rice-nutrient integrated decision support system (WeRise) is an information and communications technology-based app that provides advisories on optimum sowing and fertilizer application timings using suitable varieties. It was initially developed for Indonesia and the Philippines to improve yields and livelihoods in rainfed rice areas amidst weather uncertainties. Drawing from the Technology Acceptance Model, previous technology adoption studies, and user-centered design frameworks, the study conducted 1:1 online moderated usability sessions involving seven extension workers from the government and non-government organizations and private sector to characterize representative users; determine if potential users will find it easy or difficult to use WeRise and complete core tasks in real-time; and identify areas for improvement to adapt WeRise for potential users in Uganda. Uganda is among the focus countries of the One CGIAR Digital Systems Initiative. WeRise can help Uganda address its water management problems through efficient nutrient-water use. The participants of the study noted limited transportation to reach farmers, too many farmers under their care and poor connectivity in the sites among their challenges. Their goals and favorite extension activities indicate that they are problemfocused and result/outcome-oriented. In developing and disseminating WeRise in Uganda, it will be important to establish proofs and co-develop the app with extension workers with the goal of solving problems (i.e., low productivity) and increasing chances of use (by extension workers) and uptake of advisories (by farmers). The participants found WeRise easy to use and useful based on the System Usability Score (76.07) and Net Promoter Score (71%). Areas for improvement should make navigation easier, and instructions and other contents clearer and more logical. User-friendly features (i.e., input year, show password, add tabs to contact technical support and register) may also be added to avoid confusion. Another usability study is recommended to evaluate the improvements made.