Testing

Objectives of the Testing Phase

• Understand the importance of user testing in Design Thinking
• Learn the concept of usability and its key criteria
• Know how to conduct a usability test
• Analyze and apply insights from user tests

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Purpose of This Phase

After building a prototype, it’s crucial to test it with real users to discover strengths and weaknesses.

Why Test?

• Ensure the solution addresses the identified problem
• Detect pain points and possible improvements
• Validate or adjust features before production
• Save time and resources by avoiding costly errors

Design Thinking is iterative: testing may lead back to ideation, prototyping, or even empathy if the problem was misdefined.

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Recruiting Testers

To get relevant feedback:

• Select users that match your target audience
• Ideally involve participants already consulted during the empathy phase
• 5 testers are often enough to uncover most critical issues

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What Is Usability?

Usability refers to how easily a user can achieve a goal using a product.

According to the Interaction Design Foundation, it is based on five key criteria:

• Effectiveness → Can users successfully complete tasks?
• Efficiency → Can tasks be performed quickly?
• Engagement → Is the experience enjoyable and intuitive?
• Error Tolerance → Are mistakes well-handled and understandable?
• Learnability → Can new users easily learn to use the product?

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What Is a Usability Test?

A usability test involves observing how users interact with a prototype to identify obstacles and improve the experience.

Steps of a Usability Test

1. Prepare a scenario and tasks

   • Define a specific action to perform
   • Examples: “Book a flight”, “Add a product to the cart”

2. Introduce the test

   • Explain the purpose without giving too much guidance
   • Encourage users to think out loud

3. Observe user interaction

   • Watch their navigation
   • Ask open-ended questions:
     • “What do you think of this interface?”
     • “Why did you click here?”
     • “What were you expecting to happen?”

4. Note pain points and reactions

   • Spot hesitation, frustration, or confusing behavior
   • Screen-record (with consent) for detailed review

5. Conclude with overall feedback

   • Ask for their opinion on the experience
   • Check if the product meets their expectations
   • Discuss pricing or other relevant topics if needed

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Analyzing Results and Next Steps

After testing, you need to analyze the findings and decide what to do next.

What to Do After a Test?

• Summarize major issues and suggested improvements
• Go back to the ideation phase if needed
• Iterate on the prototype before production
• If feedback is positive, proceed with final development

A test is not a failure if problems are found — it’s an opportunity to improve.

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Examples of User Testing Methods

• Lab Testing → In-depth observation in a controlled environment
• Remote Testing → Users test from home using tools like Maze, Lookback
• Guerrilla Testing → Quick informal tests in public places

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Final Summary

• Testing a prototype is essential to identify and fix issues before development
• Usability depends on five core criteria: effectiveness, efficiency, engagement, error tolerance, and learnability
• A usability test involves observing users and analyzing their feedback
• Test results guide improvements before launching the final product

Once validated, the product is ready for development and deployment.