usability testing
Formal usability testing is one of the most effective ways to pin-point user interaction problems with user interfaces of all kinds - provided that you conduct the tests correctly.
An iterative process with prototyping and usability testing on staples.com resulted in a 75% increase in conversion rates.Infoworld.com
Unlike a User Experience Evaluation, usability testing is often conducted in a more controlled laboratory setting where users interact with a product (or a prototype) and perform representative tasks. This level of testing helps identify any difficulties users have with the product interface before it goes live, and thus helps fine-tune the design of the interface.
Inovdesigns' approach to website usability testing emphasizes rapid, iterative testing and capitalizes on our click-through prototypes. Our philosophy is to "test early and test often," and we recommend that semi-formal testing (often referred to as a "Usability Walkthrough") begin soon after the initial information architecture click-through prototype (which primarily conveys navigation, structure, and labeling) is complete.
As the prototype becomes more developed and functionality is added, usability testing methodologies can become more formal, collecting benchmark measures such as performance (success rate, time to complete task), perceptions (survey responses, in-depth interviews), and and evaluation of usability issues weighted according to severity.
Objectively Testing Our Designs
In order to objectively evaluate our interface designs, we have a relationship with a testing partner that provides access to over 450 user testing locations throughout the world and includes a centrally located recruiting firm with 15 years of experience.
Their user testing facilities & equipment include testing rooms, observation rooms, high-speed connections/phones for our clients, and drawing boards for making collaborative design decisions.