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Usability lab FAQs

What is usability?

Usability is a measure of how easy and how satisfying it is for a user to complete a task. In the context of a Web site this might concern how successfully a user can find the information they are seeking.

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What is usability testing?

Usability testing is a means for measuring how well people can use an item such as a web page or a computer interface.

During usability testing, the aim is to observe target-audience members using the product in as realistic a situation as possible, to discover errors and areas of improvement.

Once testing has been completed, findings are fed back to the development team to inform the next stage of development.

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Why do I need usability testing?

Designers and developers are so familiar with their own design that they're often not aware of possible problems that can cause users difficulty.

By observing the target audience, we can see how successfully users can complete tasks. We can also make sure that users can fulfill their goals and do so in a satisfying manner.

Only if users have a pleasing experience will they return.

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Can you supply test participants?

We're happy to help you find suitable test participants. How we go about this will depend on the target audience of your website.

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Can you help run the test?

We'll help as much as you wish. We can run the entire test and report back to you, or we can give you training and access to the testing facilities and allow you to run the test yourself.

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Can you train our staff to run tests?

Yes. We're happy to take your staff through some typical testing scenarios or perhaps walk them through running the first test on your site or project.

We can tailor the training to your business needs.

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What is it exactly that I'm getting?

You're getting highly accurate, meaningful information on how effective your website is. Is it representing your business effectively?
Is it making you money as it should?
Is it frustrating or pleasing your customers? Do they like your business more or less after visiting your website?

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How many users do you test at a time?

We test with one user at a time. We would expect to test with four or five users in one day of testing. The length of the test sessions vary depending on the project.

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When's the best time to run user tests?

Many people want their sites to be tested just before launch. This is better than no testing but it's much better if we can test earlier in the design process. Better still is if we can run a second and third test throughout the design and build cycle.

The website does not have to be complete for testing to begin.

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