18F

18F - Usability Testing

Observe users interacting with a product or service, asking them to verbalize their thoughts aloud. This reveals friction points and unexpected uses.

Duration
2 hours
Group Size
5-8
Category
18F
Difficulty
Easy
Understand the intuitiveness of the design. Determine how well it adapts to user needs in real-world scenarios.
Usability testing findings. Direct user feedback. Prioritized list of usability improvements.
I've found it helpful to record sessions, even if you take notes. It's easy to miss nuances in real-time. Also, pilot your test with a colleague first. You'll always find something to improve. Consider these resources:

  • Blog posts on remote moderated usability testing

  • Sample design research participant agreement

  • Sample interview checklist

  • Sample usability test guide

  • Sample interview debrief worksheet


  1. Define the scope: Choose the specific product or feature to test.

  2. Design the test: Create realistic scenarios and tasks for users to perform.

  3. Recruit participants: Find representative users and obtain informed consent.

  4. Conduct the tests: Observe users as they complete tasks, encouraging them to think aloud.

  5. Analyze results: Identify patterns and prioritize usability issues. Sometimes, users struggle despite our best efforts – that's valuable data too.

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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

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  • Prototype or product

  • Task scenarios

  • Recording software (screen and audio)

  • Observation forms (digital or paper)

  • Consent forms

Unlock Materials Required

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NNGroup - Usability Testing Guide
Comprehensive usability testing resource from NNGroup.
Usability Test Script Template
Template for creating usability test scripts.

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