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Practical Evaluation
This technique focuses on how effectively users are able to accomplish their tasks using the interface. It is the most in-depth technique for detecting and correcting critical design flaws.
This technique can be done before a redesign of a site to find out areas that work and don’t work. It can also be done early in the product life cycle using a paper prototype. This is a good iterative technique and can be done multiple times as the product design changes and improves.
Process outline:
- Determine the specific areas or functionality of the product to be evaluated and the particular characteristics of the typical user for recruiting purposes.
- Recruit and schedule users.
- Write the task scenarios. Make each task as close to real user tasks as possible.
- Practice the scenarios to see that the tasks work and that the user will see the sections of the site under evaluation.
- Conduct the evaluation.
- Users perform the tasks with little or no help from the moderator.
- Users think aloud, explaining what they are doing and why and what they expect of the interface as they perform their tasks.
- Watch users and if possible videotape the session for later viewing by the project team.
- Write a report of observation findings and recommendations. Work with the team to reach consensus on recommended actions and priorities.
- The Team makes the recommended changes.
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