How do you test assumptions and hypotheses in system development?

1 Identify assumptions and hypotheses

The first step in testing assumptions and hypotheses is to identify them clearly and explicitly. You can use various techniques to elicit and document your assumptions and hypotheses, such as brainstorming, interviewing, surveying, observing, or prototyping. You should also prioritize your assumptions and hypotheses based on their importance and uncertainty, and focus on testing the ones that have the most impact and risk on your system development. You can use tools such as assumption mapping, hypothesis statements, or lean canvas to organize and prioritize your assumptions and hypotheses.

2 Choose a testing method

The next step in testing assumptions and hypotheses is to choose a suitable testing method that can provide you with reliable and relevant data and feedback. You can use different testing methods depending on the type, stage, and scope of your assumptions and hypotheses, such as experiments, interviews, surveys, usability tests, A/B tests, or analytics. You should also define your testing criteria, such as the target audience, sample size, duration, metrics, and success indicators. You can use tools such as test cards, validation boards, or experiment reports to plan and document your testing method.

3 Conduct the testing

The third step in testing assumptions and hypotheses is to conduct the testing according to your chosen method and criteria. You should prepare the necessary materials, tools, and resources for your testing, such as prototypes, scripts, questions, platforms, or channels. You should also recruit and engage with your participants, whether they are users, customers, or stakeholders, and ensure that they provide honest and constructive feedback. You should collect and record the data and feedback from your testing using tools such as forms, spreadsheets, or dashboards.

4 Analyze the results

The fourth step in testing assumptions and hypotheses is to analyze the results from your testing and draw conclusions. You should organize and visualize the data and feedback from your testing using tools such as charts, graphs, or tables. You should also compare the results with your expectations and criteria, and identify any patterns, trends, or insights. You should evaluate whether your assumptions and hypotheses are validated, invalidated, or partially validated, and what are the implications for your system development.

5 Communicate the findings

The fifth step in testing assumptions and hypotheses is to communicate the findings from your analysis to your team and stakeholders. You should present the findings in a clear and concise manner, using tools such as presentations, reports, or dashboards. You should also explain the rationale, methods, and results of your testing, and highlight the key learnings and recommendations. You should also solicit feedback and suggestions from your team and stakeholders, and address any questions or concerns.

6 Iterate and improve

The sixth and final step in testing assumptions and hypotheses is to iterate and improve your system development based on the findings from your testing. You should use the findings to refine your requirements, design, features, or functionality of your system, and make any necessary changes or adjustments. You should also update your assumptions and hypotheses, and test them again using the same or different methods. You should repeat this process until you achieve a satisfactory level of validation and feedback for your system development.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?