Usability Testing Materials


Citation: Gaffney, G. Usability Testing Materials. Information & Design. 2001.
http://www.infodesign.com.au/usabilityresources/usabilitytestingmaterials

Key words: test schedule, observer guidelines, script, consent form, task cards, logging sheets


This article is about (main discussion):
Preparing for and conducting usability testing in a way that makes the administrator comfortable and at ease with the testing materials.

The author argues that:
the following materials are imperative to a successful usability testing session: test schedule (describes location and time of each session), observer guidelines (“ground rules” about appropriate behaviour), script (which gives the appropriate amount of information to the participant), consent form (if taping the participant), task cards (a written description of the task that the participant can refer back to if needed), logging sheets (to take notes during the test- “detailed” and/or free-form), questionnaire (an optional form to gather demographic data and other feedback and comments).


The authors make the following statements or sites the following references on support of his/ her argument (provide 2-3 quotes):
Usability testing can be stressful for participants; therefore, we must treat him/ her with respect by: being quiet, not disrupting, do not include, personal names or attributes, refrain form joking or laughing, and wait for all results before changing any designs. http://www.infodesign.com.au/ftp/ObserverGuidelines.pdf
Introduce the participant to the testing by explaining the purpose of the testing, the length of time it should take, encouraging “think-aloud,” and assure him/ her that it is not a test of ability, but of usability. http://www.infodesign.com.au/ftp/TestScript.pdf
The purpose of the questionnaire is to gain an understanding of people who will use the product http://www.infodesign.com.au/ftp/TestQuestionnaire.pdf

The authors conclude that:
Using the above materials will assist the tester in achieving the desired result of a meaningful and successful usability test.

The authors feel that:
“It is important that your testing plan is rigorously defined, so that you can maximize the benefits of this technique.” http://www.infodesign.com.au/usabilitytesting

References: http://www.infodesign.com.au/usabilityresources/usabilitytestingmaterials 2001