by We’ve started doing some usability testing. I’m quite excited about doing usability testing. As the first go, it’s been quite enlightening. First, I’m terribly surprised by the number of people who are willing to stop to help out with testing. Sadly, I am usually one of those who looks away when survey takers look my way in the mall. Perhaps my new role will change this outlook – perhaps I’ll be more sympathetic and participating in more surveys.
The other thing I’m interested in more than I expected is designing better surveys and questions. Again, I suppose this isn’t terribly surprising given my position – I need to know how to do this better. As we go through our first testing, I’m finding issues with wording. I’m seeing the advantages and disadvantages of open questions and other testing methods. I find I’m interested in reading more about creating proper surveys, better forms and figuring out the best testing for given situations. Now, I just need the time to get all of this reading done.
I have a feeling that another thing I will need to learn is not to over test – it is possible to ask about the same element using two or three different methods. In some cases, follow up will be required but it is important not to fall down the rabbit hole of continuous questioning. Like all projects, it’s important to know when to stop. I’m looking forward to more testing so I can hone these skills. Bring on the testing!
