Usability Testing 101

Qualitative Usability Testing: Study Guide

Usability Testing

<aside> ✏️ The phrase “usability testing” is often used interchangeably with “user testing.” Doing research with users without any usability testing is referred to as "user interviews."

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What is it

In a usability-testing session, a researcher (called a “facilitator” or a “moderator”) asks a participant to perform tasks, usually using one or more specific user interfaces. While the participant completes each task, the researcher observes the participant’s behavior and listens for feedback.

Who does it

UX researchers should facilitate usability tests but most individuals in UX should be comfortable running usability tests.

When to do it

Usability testing can be done at different stages of the design process, but typically require some sort of product or design a user can interact with.

Usability testing can help you:

• Identify problems in the design of the product or service
• Uncover opportunities to improve and better meet user goals
• Learn about the target user’s behavior and preferences

How to do it

• How: Plan the study with tasks; test with a group (typically of 5 users); analyze the findings and make design recommendations.

What is “Usability”

• Usability: Usability in its simplest form is how easy a product is to use. A product is considered usable if it is effective, efficient, and satisfying.