Goal of Usability Testing

Ÿ Find flaws and refine interface

Ÿ Create report with findings an suggestions

Effective Usability Testing

Ÿ Encourage users to think aloud (two people together can be better)

Ÿ Support users in completion of task list

Ÿ Invite general comments or suggestions afterwards

Videotaping

Ÿ Show designers actual user behavior

Coding of Observed Behavior

Ÿ Task completion

Ÿ Error sources

Ÿ Task sequencing

Ÿ Categorizing of behavior

Ÿ Logging of user activity (typing, mousing) with time stamping

Importance of Participants Selection

Ÿ Background in computing, Task experience

Ÿ Motivation, Education

Ÿ Physical abilities - eyesight, hearing

Voluntary Participation Critical

Ÿ Obtain signed informed consent

Ÿ "It is not you who is being tested"

Surprise of Usability Testing

Ÿ Speed-up of project and dramatic cost savings

Limitations of Usability Testing

Ÿ Emphasizes first-time usage

Ÿ Limited coverage of the interface features.

Ÿ Expert reviews can supplement usability testing