How do you test and debug a natural user interface that involves multiple modalities?

2 Choose the methods

The next step is to choose the methods that you will use to test and debug the NUI, depending on the stage of development, the type of feedback that you need, and the resources that you have. You can use different methods for different purposes, such as usability testing, user acceptance testing, heuristic evaluation, cognitive walkthrough, or debugging tools. You should also decide how you will collect and analyze the data, such as audio, video, logs, or metrics.

3 Prepare the environment

The third step is to prepare the environment where you will test and debug the NUI, ensuring that it is suitable for the modality and the scenario that you are testing. You should also make sure that the equipment, software, and network are working properly, and that you have the necessary permissions and consents from the users and the stakeholders. You should also plan how you will communicate with the users, such as through instructions, prompts, or debriefing.

4 Conduct the tests

The fourth step is to conduct the tests with the users, following the scenarios that you have defined, and using the methods that you have chosen. You should observe and record how the users interact with the NUI, how the NUI responds to the users, and how the users react to the NUI. You should also look for any errors, bugs, or issues that might affect the performance, usability, or satisfaction of the NUI.

5 Analyze the results

The fifth step is to analyze the results of the tests, using the data that you have collected and the criteria that you have set. You should identify and prioritize the problems and opportunities that you have found, and relate them to the goals and tasks of the users, the features and functions of the system, and the expected outcomes and feedback. You should also generate and evaluate possible solutions and recommendations for improving the NUI.

6 Iterate and improve

The sixth and final step is to iterate and improve the NUI, based on the results of the analysis and the solutions and recommendations that you have generated. You should implement the changes that you have decided, and test and debug them again, using the same or different methods and scenarios. You should also document and communicate the changes and the results to the users and the stakeholders, and seek their feedback and approval.

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?