5 ways to plan User Testing

5 ways to plan User Testing

Testing, which is the last stage in the design thinking process entails getting a prototype to real users to try out. To create user-friendly products, prototyping and testing is crucial. 

Here are 5 recommended ways to plan user testing: 
1. Allow your participants compare alternatives: it is much easier when participants have several prototypes each with a change in variable to try out. They can easily tell you what they like and dislike. 

2. Show, don't tell: let your participants feel and experience the prototypes on their own. Focus on observing their reactions. 

3. Participants should talk through their experience: encourage them to tell you about what they are thinking when trying out the prototype. 

4. Observe: watch how your participants use the prototype and resist the urge to make any corrections. 

5. Ask questions: always ask your users follow up questions. 
​
Ever heard of Microsoft Zune? Microsoft’s answer to the popular Apple iPod. For Microsoft, the Zune was supposed to compete with the iPod for market dominance. But Zune was doomed from its very beginning, it was launched in 2006 when the Apple iPod was already 5 years old, and the mobile phone was becoming sleeker and functional. 

The popularity of the iPod itself, and the entire idea of a “sole mp3 player” was already at its peak and was falling. Blinded by the assumed projected market share of the iPod, Zune was launched. If only they tested thoroughly, Microsoft could have avoided this loss. It is crucial to test a product before launching – ask for feedback and listen to the feedback as well.  

User's feedback is particularly important for the success of the product design. Your product users’ feedback is invaluable. If users experience any difficulty or issue during testing, the design team must go back and proffer better solutions.  

If you do not know how to go about testing your prototype or run into problem at this stage...then you must be doing something wrong. Brave Achievers Foundation is here to give a step-by-step guide and follow up on all the 5 stages in the design thinking process. Sign up today for updates about our future Bootcamps or Webinars. 

Work smart not hard.