Design and Usability Walkthrough
Similar to user interaction/usability testing, usability walkthroughs test new concepts and prototype designs to determine how well they on the success criteria before you need to commit extensive development resources and effort.
Timing
This type of design walkthrough is typically performed either at the end of Visioning or at the beginning of iDesign, before detailed specifications are set.
Methodology
Design walkthroughs are conducted in one-on-one test sessions in which a research analyst facilitates a test participant through usage scenarios emphasizing electronic screenshots. The test participant is asked to give feedback on the flow of the processes, the overall look and feel, navigational issues, terminology used, and colour and graphics. An experience test is conducted during development, to ensure that developers are aware of user expectations before the site or software product is launched.
Each test session uses a standardized script using frequent and/or critical tasks with questions on each function to provide a consistent, repeatable process. Our clients are encouraged to participate in the sript development and must approve the test script in order to make certain that we are addressing their needs. As issues begin to emerge, we can explore design alternatives with test participants to begin to develop effective design solutions.
Benefits
- Gathering user experience feedback early in the design process allows you to validate design strategies and sets the foundation for future development.
- This methodology helps you understand and resolve any initial content, design and functionality issues.
- Design alternatives allow users to comment about elements and offer suggestions for a "Best in Class" design.
Deliverables
- Design Walkthrough Test Report which includes an Executive Summary, Findings and Recommendations, Data Summary and Analysis,
- Video of each testing session,
- Option: highlight CD containing video clips of key issues.