Usability may be more important now than ever before with so many people around the world confined to their homes, thanks to the Coronavirus, and glued to their connected devices. The internet is the main means of communicating or getting news from outside of their homes. It is also a means of passing the time especially for those who cannot work from home.
Netflix and YouTube have reduced their streaming quality in Europe in order to reduce the strain on the networks. Everyone is on the internet, whether it is to work or to play. This is when the usability of your digital product might be mass tested. And you want to make sure that it meets your users’ expectations. Contrary to what in-person usability testing proponents may believe, ensuring good usability does not require in-person meetings or lab testing. You can run 100% remote usability studies and achieve just as insightful results.
A usability study can be run without anyone ever having to leave their home; neither the researcher nor the study sponsor and least of all the participants. The participants can complete the study at home and on their own devices. Connectivity and the internet have made it possible using software that allows the moderator to view and capture the participant’s screen, hear their audio input, and view their faces. Enhanced distribution and recording tools have also made it possible to target participants offline and receive high-fidelity user videos and feedback.
So don’t despair, read our book and let us know if you have questions. We’re happy to get you started on your new remote endeavors.
