Usability testing
Usability testing is a research method used to evaluate wireframes, prototypes and early-release versions of digital products by testing them with representative users.
Usability testing is a versatile and essential research practice that empowers teams to create user-friendly, engaging and successful digital products, resulting in increased user satisfaction and loyalty.
Introduction to usability testing
The purpose of usability testing is to understand how real users interact with a design and perform specific tasks. From users’ feedback on their experience, we can uncover usability issues, user pain points and areas for improvement as well as a picture of what’s working well. We typically conduct sessions remotely via video call, and screen sharing is used to observe users’ engagement with the design.
What is usability testing and why is it important?
The valuable insights and actionable feedback gained from usability testing enable our team to make necessary adjustments to enhance the user experience, and as a result, increase engagement, improved user satisfaction, and overall business success.
The role of usability testing in UX design
Usability testing validates design decisions by identifying whether the design meets its intended purpose. Rather than relying on assumptions, testing with real users provides concrete data and insights for teams to base their design choices on, and therefore reduces the risk of subjective biases.
Benefits of usability testing
Identifying usability issues early in the design process saves significant time and resources by reducing the likelihood of major redesigns or costly post-launch modifications.
As positive user experiences directly impact business success, focusing on user need through usability testing ensures that the final digital product meets business requirements.
Supporting your users' needs
Develops user empathy and understanding
Facilitates an iterative design approach
Provides a competitive advantage
The 5 stages of usability testing
Stage 1: Preparation
Based on an agreed set of objectives, we first create a test plan to outline the methodology of the research approach.
Stage 2: Script and prototype development
A script is then created based on the digital product being tested. This includes the tasks that each participant will undertake and the questions that will be asked of participants to help further understand their experience.
Stage 3: Conducting the sessions
Make it Clear will set up the calls, brief the participants and then facilitate the sessions which are generally recorded with both audio and video.
Stage 4: Analysis
The data from the usability testing sessions is analysed and refined by our experienced strategy and research team to produce clear findings and actionable insights.
Stage 5: Reporting
A report will be written which details the usability testing process, our findings, key insights and recommendations that were identified from the sessions. This report will be presented back to and shared with the client.
Whats included
Firstly, we create a detailed test plan outlining the research methodology, participant criteria, tasks and other relevant information based on business goals and objectives. We will conduct the testing sessions either remotely or in person depending on the project’s requirements and constraints. Next, we conduct data analysis based on our data collection, followed by a generation of insights and recommendations. Finally, a comprehensive usability testing report will be prepared which will be presented back to stakeholders either in person or through a virtual meeting to discuss the results and next steps.
Why choose Make it Clear
At Make it Clear, we take an evidence-based approach to everything we do. Understanding your organisation, audiences, and the context in which they interact is paramount to the way we work and deliver a best-in-class user experience.
