User tests
User tests are basic and the most important mathod of testing and increasing the usability of a product.
Usability analysis is carried out with 3 to 12 persons from a set target group. Such number of users enables to gather a sufficient amount of opinions and impressions about website usability. Because the analysis is a qualitative method there is no need for many persons to participate.
You can read more about fault coverage in qualitative research of website on Jakoba Nielsen’s page.
The process includes:
- Defining the research area and the target group
- Website analysis
- Designing the rest scenarios and consulting them with the client
- Conducting a pilot survey and adjusting the scenarios if applicable
- Recruiting the users to the test
- Carrying out the user tests
a. Introducing the user into test process
b. Filling in the pre-survey
c. Realization of pilot task
d. Realization of test scenarios
e. In-depth Interview elements
f. Filling in the post-survey
g. Finishing the formal issues, payment - Optional test recording (audio, video, screen) and document processing
- The analysis of a recorded session and discussion in a group: an observer, a moderator, a client.
- Conclusions, suggestions and directives to the project according to the results of the tests
- Optionally, a report in a basic (Excel) or extended (PDF) version
- Optional preparing prototypes of improved system