The Value of Usability Testing
The value of usability testing is not always appreciated by non-specialists and sometimes convincing them of its usefulness can be a challenge
If you are an agency in this position here are some pointers and tips as to how sell usability testing as an integral part of any product design or development pitch.
Don’t be defensive…
It isn’t about validating your concepts or designs, it is about getting the best possible outcome from the design and development process; so embrace it and sell usability testing as an integral part of the process (which it should be anyway!).
Explain what usability testing is…
Stress that without usability testing it is highly unlikely that you will be able to optimise and the design and therefore get the most from the website or online product.
If you have done usability testing before or feel confident to discuss examples, show how it practically feeds into design in previous projects and highlight the type of issues it can identify and resolve.
Talk to a testing agency…
Find out what they can do for you and how they can help focus your pitch. Discuss your plans and explain what you want to do so that you get what you need from them in terms of the activity and outputs of the process. This will mean that you can give your client a clear picture of the usability testing procedures, timing, cost, benefits etc.
You could also partner with them a to construct your pitches. Major on the usability and testing factors and make them the focus and selling points of your pitch. Everyone will be pitching a design but can they pitch a guaranteed outcome and assured usability and relevant functionality?
Explain the value of testing on actual users…
Stress the independent nature of the process and the fact that designs are tested on real users – so it is not the opinion of designers, testers, moderators or any intermediaries. The end-users insight is invaluable to the designer and client in the development process to produce the best web offering possible.
If you feel the need to be convinced yourself of the value of usability, we would be more than happy to talk to you about usability testing and the precise techniques, benefits and results you can expect from undertaking the research.
If you would like to know more or take your interest further in any way please contact us today for an informal chat on +44(0)800 0246 247, or email hello@ux247.com or contact us.
