Usability Testing 101: What It Is, Why It Matters, and How To Do It

Usability testing is a technique used in user-centered interaction design to evaluate a product by testing it on users. This can be seen as an irreplaceable usability practice, since it gives direct input on how real users use the system. There are several types of usability testing: 1. Lab Usability Testing: Conducted in a controlled environment where participants perform tasks while observers watch, listen and take notes. This type of testing is often used for complex systems or applications that require specialized equipment. 2. Remote Usability Testing: Participants are tested from their own locations using screen sharing software. This can be done synchronously (in real-time) or asynchronously (not in real-time). 3. Guerrilla Usability Testing: Quick and informal testing sessions with people who are not part of the design team, usually conducted in public places such as cafes or libraries. 4. Moderated Remote Usability Testing: Similar to remote usability testing but with a facilitator guiding the participant through the tasks. 5. Unmoderated Remote Usability Testing: Participants complete tasks on their own, usually recorded for later analysis. 6. A/B Testing: Two versions of a design are tested against each other to see which performs better. 7. Tree Testing: Users navigate through a site map or menu structure to find items. 8. Card Sorting: Participants organize topics into categories that make sense to them. 9. Eye Tracking: Records where users look on a screen while performing tasks. 10. Surveys and Questionnaires: Collect feedback from users about their experiences with the product. The cost of usability testing can vary greatly depending on factors such as the type of test, the number of participants, and whether it's done in-house or outsourced to a third party. However, even small companies can conduct effective usability tests with minimal resources by using free tools and recruiting volunteers from their own customer base. Usability testing should be conducted regularly throughout the software development lifecycle, including during prototyping, pre-launch, post-launch, and after updates or new features are added. By continually gathering feedback from real users, companies can ensure that their products remain user-friendly and effective.