Usability Testing Process

	What it is
	Why it's important
	What's involved
	Solutions
	Process
	Reference

"The Magic 8"

Data from eight test subjects is ideal. As more test subjects are added, you will receive diminishing returns. Many project teams will have one or two pilot tests, tweak the program or site, then continue with testing.

	TOOLS YOU NEED: usability specialist who has not been apart of the design or development team paper prototype, functional prototype or completed system stopwatch participants who will act as your test subjects (8 participants is ideal) gift to thank the participants for their time (or payment) a set of tasks that are carefully written before the test so as not to instruct the test subjects "how" to perform the tasks.

1.	A test subject and a skilled test facilitator sit down together to conduct the test. The facilitator briefs the test subject by explaining that: They have asked for usability participants to help so that they can improve the system. It is NOT the test subject who is being tested, but the system. "Thinking out loud" about thoughts and feelings as the test subject moves through the tasks will help the facilitator understand this experience with greater clarity. The test subject may ask questions, but the facilitator will not be able to answer or provide instruction.

2.	The test subject is asked to perform one task at a time. Using the stopwatch, the facilitator times how long it takes to perform each task and makes notes of any specific difficulties the subject has while trying to perform the tasks.

3.	The facilitator debriefs the subject after the test, getting any additional thoughts and impressions.

4.	This process is repeated for each test subject.

5.	After all the subjects have tested the system, the facilitator writes up an evaluation report ranking problems encountered in the test based on their severity and priority in fixing prior to launch/re-launch

	NOTE: The design team can watch the test take place. In fact, it can be very helpful to have various stakeholders watch the testing process so that they see for themselves where the usability issues may lie. It is important, however, that they are not visible. (Having a bunch of people watching you take a test can make a person uncomfortable -- even when the test is for the system and not them!)

web site workbook, website workbook, web site planning workbook, website planning workbook, web site plan, website plan, web planning, web site planning, website planning, web site project prepbook, website project prepbook, plan web project, plan web site project, plan website project

Web Sites that Fly™ , home of the web site planning workbook, Web Site Project Prepbook -- Minneapolis, MN, USA © Copyrighted 1998- . Rebecca St. Martin. All Rights Reserved. Graphic Design for Print: Visit the Graphic Sage.

web site workbook, website workbook, web site planning workbook, website planning workbook, web site plan, website plan, web planning, web site planning, website planning, web site project prepbook, website project prepbook, plan web project, plan web site project, plan website project, teleconference, teleconference services, teleconference companies, teleconference service, teleconference comparison