Moderated usability testing involves the research participant using the product or service (or have seen prototypes or mockups) to complete realistic activities or tasks as if they were using the product for real. The researcher observes the participant in real time as they use the product, capturing details of their behavior and listening for feedback. An advantage of moderated usability testing is that the researcher can ask the participant questions in real time as they are using the product. This enables a deep understanding to be achieved around why a participant is behaving in a certain way.
NOTE: We don't have an in-product template for this yet, but stay tuned!
When the method should be used:
Usability testing is generally used once the product concept has been defined and the detailed user interface is being developed. The aim is to uncover potential issues with the product design and discover opportunities to improve the product before it’s released. It’s also a valuable tool when a product is live and you want to optimize aspects of it.
Moderated usability testing specifically should be used when interaction and conversation between the researcher and participant is required. This is generally used to collect qualitative information around why a participant has behaved in a certain way, why they think something or where clarification on a subject is required.
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How easy is our product to use?
How long will it take someone to use our product?
What parts of our product will confuse people?
Evaluate the efficiency, effectiveness and satisfaction of your product
Identify likely issues with your product design
Understand how people are likely to use your product
Time intensive to conduct
Participants can behave differently in a research environment to their real one
Sample size will be small
