An Insight on Principles & Methods of Usability Testing

The aim of usability testing is to ascertain whether the website precisely meets its purpose and the requirements of the user. Listed below are the various ways of carrying out this test and the principles to be followed during the procedure.

Usability or interface testing, primarily refers to the evaluation of a website by interacting with the target audience, and understanding their responses, feedback, and overall experience. The results derived are treated as a measurement to find the loopholes, control the drawbacks, and further improve on the effectiveness of the site. For conducting such tests, it is always advisable to hire the services of an expert website designing company in Dubai, such as, Web Solution Center, which holds an extensive experience in web designing and development. Below is an insight on the principles to be followed and the various types of testing procedures:

The Four Principles

Accuracy: The number of mistakes made by customers while trying to perform the basic tasks of searching for a product or adding it to the cart. If the right information is provided, then such mistakes may be recoverable.

Efficiency: The measurement of time taken and steps required for the user to complete the above-mentioned tasks.

Recall: When there is a time gap, does the user remember the interface or the surfing process?

Emotional Response: The overall experience of the customer after finishing the task. Does he/she feel stressed or happy? Would the user recommend the site to a friend?

Methods of Testing

Hallway: As the name suggests, this procedure involves conducting the test on random people passing by in the hallway. This test should however be conducted on four to six users during the initial stages of design.

A/B: With the help of a reputed website designing company in Dubai, one may conduct an A/B testing to check the effectiveness of the interface. This method aims to identify the elements which aid in enhancing the user’s interest on the web page. During the testing, two versions of the website are compared. The components are the same, except for one component that may impact the behavior of the user. These may include buttons, call-to-action, images, or a contact form.

Expert Review: This involves experts to review the product. Of course, this would entail a financial and logistical cost.

Remote Usability: This procedure enables organizations to evaluate the interface by interacting with users in different parts of the world. One way of carrying out such a test is by way of video conferencing. Other methods include the use of remote applications which help in following the user’s movements and click streams on the website.

By availing the services of a reliable website designing company Dubai, one may undertake usability testing, and thereby attract traffic and maximize conversions.

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Mr. Gurjeet Singh is a freelance web designer who loves to spread his knowledge through his proficient writings.