Method

A usability study generates objective data about system ease-of-use. Representative users evaluate the system for how well it supports their specific goals.  Data is collected while users are observed performing specified tasks.  This data is aggregated to identify changes that will improve the quality of the system's usability.

Results

The data from a usability study includes demographic and debriefing questionnaires results, and tabulated usability data. For each issue raised by the data, the development team proposes solutions to be included in the revised design of the product.

Timeframe

Two weeks of part-time preparation, one week for the actual study, three days for interpretation of data and follow-up.

Preparation

For the client, preparation involves reserving the usability lab, providing a list of potential participants, the development of task scenarios, and the development of pre- and post-test questionnaires. The test system must be installed on or accessible by the usability lab test computer. A complete design -- in paper, wireframe, mocked-up hardware -- needs to be ready for testing.

Additional Reading

Handbook of Usability Testing: How to Plan, Design, and Conduct Effective Tests, Jeffrey Rubin, 1994. ISBN 0-471-59403-2 (330 pages)