Simplified Steps for Usability Testing

Are you feeling overwhelmed by usability testing? Unsure of where to begin? Worried about the time and cost involved?

Usability Testing Made Simple: A Beginner’s Guide

Well, fear not! Usability testing doesn’t have to be a complicated and expensive process. In fact, it can be quite simple and quick. Let me walk you through four manageable steps to perform a free remote usability test, along with some tips to ensure you obtain actionable data.

Step 1: Start with a clear goal

Firstly, determine the question you want to answer with the test. Do you need to ensure a specific flow works well? Or perhaps you want to test out a new design?

Once you have your question in mind, select 2 or 3 specific tasks for the test participant. Avoid vague instructions like “explore this feature and tell me what you think.” Instead, focus on watching them try to accomplish something. For example, ask them to buy a pair of shoes for under $40.

Step 2: Recruit participants

Recruiting participants might seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. You only need 3 to 5 people for meaningful data. Look for representative individuals who resemble your target users and would have a reason to perform the tasks you’re testing. Avoid bias by excluding people from your company or your personal connections.

Start by reaching out to your user base. Your customers are already interested in your product, so they make an ideal pool of potential participants. You can also explore customer support channels, social media, or your app to find willing participants. Additionally, consider online forums or communities where your potential users are active.

When approaching participants, a quick test of 15 minutes or less may be enough to convince a current user to participate for free. If you feel the need to offer an incentive, consider providing something from your own company or sending a gift card, such as one from Amazon.

Step 3: Perform the test

Preparation:

Create a prototype or a clickable mockup using tools like Marvel or Invision.
Write a script to provide consistent instructions between tests.
Test and confirm the working of your recording software, such as Zoom or Google Meet.

Test day:

Welcome the participant and help them feel at ease. Clarify that you are testing the site, not them. Emphasize that any mistakes are not their fault.
Explain the test process and encourage them to think out loud as they perform each task. Remind them that you won’t be offering any advice to ensure realistic conditions.
Set the real-life scenario that would lead to the task, and let them read it aloud before starting.
Remain neutral and silent throughout the test, just observing and listening. Resist the urge to explain or prompt.
After each test, take a moment to discuss how it went with the participant. Retrace their steps and ask open-ended questions like why they made certain decisions or what they were thinking at certain points.
Show genuine gratitude and explain how they’ll receive any incentives you offered.

Step 4: Analyze the results

Review the recording and take note of whether the participant successfully and efficiently completed the task. Identify any obstacles they encountered and pay attention to their key behaviors and comments.
Compare and contrast the results from different participants. Rank the issues, propose solutions, and determine the best course of action going forward.

Remember, even if you don’t follow these exact steps, any form of usability testing is better than none. Don’t put too much pressure on yourself. With practice, you’ll find your own rhythm and develop a process that works for you.

Keep it simple and keep testing!