Testing
Wizard of Oz Testing
Simulate a functional system by having a hidden person (the "wizard") control the responses. The user interacts with the interface, believing it's real. This validates concepts quickly, before investing in development.
Duration
50 mins
Group Size
3-5
Category
Testing
Difficulty
Easy
This exercise helps you test concept viability, validate complex system ideas, observe user behavior, and identify unexpected use patterns.
You'll complete Wizard of Oz testing, test simulated functionality, and validate concepts.
Keep the wizard completely hidden; otherwise, the test is invalid. The wizard must respond at a realistic speed. This is excellent for testing AI, chatbots, or complex algorithms early. It reveals real user expectations. The wizard needs quick access to responses but should also improvise. Expect users to push boundaries. Ethically, decide beforehand if you'll reveal the wizard. This is best for concept validation, not detailed design. It can be tiring for the wizard, so rotate roles if running multiple sessions. I've found it tricky sometimes to get the 'wizard' to respond naturally - practicing beforehand helps!
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