User Testing, Continued

All you need to get started in user testing is a user, a computer, and a pencil and paper for notetaking. Some usability consultants make use of video cameras, tape recorders, one-way mirrors, or other high-tech tools. These are not only unnecessary, they can actually get in the way. Keep it simple and you can spend more time focusing on user behaviors and less time worrying about why the camcorder won't work.

Where should you test?
In choosing your setup, you'll need to decide whether to test at the user's site or at your offices. There are definite advantages to testing at the user's site, though it means more travel time. You'll be able to see how they really experience your site -- 16-color monitor, 14.4 modem and all. More importantly, though, you'll be able to see their environment. It's an opportunity for you to be part anthropologist, part tester. Visiting the user's site won't work in every case (home users, for example, won't be too keen on it), but in many instances it can provide valuable extra information.

How many users should you involve?
The best way to run a user test is one-on-one: one user with one facilitator. You don't need a large quantity of users for the tests to be effective. Five one-on-one tests will often show you what five group tests couldn't. Though you'll test with more users in the second case, there's no chance you'll be able to observe them all in any meaningful way. You simply won't be able to pay attention to the details, an essential part of testing.

User Test Your Web Site
Web Review article by Keith Instone tells you how to get started.

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