Is Less More when Using and Creating Checklists?

Abstract

A checklist is a user aide for ensuring the complete and accurate performance of a series of procedural steps. Research reveals information concerning checklist design, evaluation, testing, and proper use. What can not be found is research regarding the optimal size of checklists. This paper describes research, both literary and empirical, which will answer questions regarding checklist size and the impact on implementation, efficiency, and accuracy. As a first step towards determining the optimal balance between clarity and brevity, empirical research was conducted to discover the number of checklist items an individual will actually use to correctly evaluate a graphical user interface (GUI). The authors' goal is to use the research findings to identify the smallest checklist that will produce the highest level of accuracy.

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