Testing - typical users

 

  1. Recruit (5-10)typical users who are similar to your intended user. Refer back to the "target market" description. The important thing here is that the test user should, as much as possible, be like your "real" user so you get the most accurate information.
  2. Have the test-run participants use the web site and answer questions about the site. Again you can use the same questions used in the classmate testing when surveying the typical users.You may conduct the testing online by sending an email questionnaire and then having the tester send back the answers, or you may meet with them in person and administer a printed questionnaire.
  3. If the test is done in person, observe the test-run participants as they use your web site. The important thing here is to try not to interfere. In order to get accurate information, you must not jump in to "help" as soon as you spot an apparent problem. Of course, if participants really get stuck, you do want to work with them so they can continue to test your product.
  4. Assemble the typical user testing results and create a Typical User Testing Report web page. Load it on the Web and then link to it from the Project site. An example is shown here: Example of Typical User Test