18F

18F - Cognitive Walkthrough

Cognitive Walkthrough is a usability evaluation method. Evaluators step through tasks as a user would. It focuses on the actions users take to accomplish goals, unlike examining isolated interface elements. Evaluators ask questions at each step: Will users know what to do? Will they notice the correct action? Will they understand feedback? This exercise reveals navigation, labeling, and mental model issues. Teams identify problems before user testing, saving time. Results include prioritized usability issues and recommendations.

Duration
1 hour
Group Size
3-5
Category
18F
Difficulty
Easy
Provide early feedback on a design's ease of use for new users. Identify reasons for usability issues.

  • Cognitive walkthrough findings

  • Identified first-time user issues

  • Improved learnability

Consider the user's real-world context when defining tasks. It's easy to get caught up in the details and miss the bigger picture. Also, this method has "No PRA implications" and requires standard precautions for archiving personally identifiable information.

  1. Define the traits of new or infrequent users.

  2. Develop representative tasks that emphasize new or infrequent use.

  3. Assign a team member to act as the user.

  4. Have the user complete the task with a printed or interactive design.

  5. Do not lead the user, but keep them focused.

  6. Note expected outcomes and how easily participants grasp the task.

  7. Analyze results to highlight user struggles.

Unlock Step-by-Step Instructions

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.

For Facilitators

  • Review participant profiles and expectations
  • Prepare all materials and supplies
  • Test technology and room setup

For Participants

  • Complete pre-session survey
  • Review background materials
  • Prepare examples or case studies

Unlock Pre-Work Requirements

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.


  • Task scenarios

  • Interface mockups/prototypes

  • Evaluation forms

  • Recording materials

Unlock Materials Required

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.

  • Facilitator Guide (PDF)
  • Participant Workbook Template
  • Presentation Slides
  • Printable Materials

Unlock Resources & Templates

Create a free account to access step-by-step instructions, agendas, and resources for all activities.

Discussion

0/2000
Loading comments...

Related Exercises

See all exercises

18F - Coding Qualitative Data

1.5 hours

Coding qualitative data helps teams find patterns in research. This 90-minute exercise moves teams from raw data to structured insights. Participants ...

18f

18F - Interface Audit

3 hours

An Interface Audit is a systematic review of a digital product's visual and interactive elements. This 180-minute exercise catalogs styles, colors, ic...

18f

18F - Archetypes

2 hours

Archetypes are user representations based on research. They synthesize qualitative data into actionable profiles. Unlike assumption-based personas, ar...

18f