Moderated Usability Testing

Methods

Attitudinal

qualitative

semi-moderated

self-reported

longitudinal

Description

This method entails observing users as they interact with a product in real time, allowing for immediate questions and adjustments. It offers direct insight into the user experience, highlighting areas of confusion, frustration, and satisfaction. The moderator's role is crucial in guiding the discussion, probing deeper based on user actions and reactions, and understanding the reasons behind user behaviors.

Choice Matrix

Business value

Moderated usability testing helps identify usability issues before product launch, reducing the need for costly post-launch fixes and enhancing user satisfaction. It can directly contribute to a higher conversion rate, improved user retention, and a competitive edge in the market by ensuring a product is intuitive and meets user needs.

The roots of usability testing trace back to the human factors and ergonomics field, evolving with technology from the 1980s onwards. It became more structured within the software development lifecycle, particularly as the internet and digital products grew, highlighting the need for user-centered design.

Sessions typically last 30 to 60 minutes, with preparation and analysis phases extending the total timeframe to 2-4 weeks, depending on the study's complexity and objectives.

A range of tools can facilitate moderated usability testing, from video conferencing and screen sharing applications for remote sessions to usability testing software that records sessions and gathers user feedback.

Office 365

Google Workspace

Dscout

Indeemo

Dovetail

Nielsen Norman Group: How to Conduct Usability Testing

Steve Krug's "Rocket Surgery Made Easy"

Usability.gov's Usability Testing Guide