What are the best mobile app usability testing methods for remote teams?

1 Moderated Testing

Moderated testing is a method where you interact with the participants in real time, either through video call, phone call, or chat. You can guide them through the tasks, ask questions, and observe their behavior and reactions. Moderated testing can help you gain deeper insights into the user's context, motivation, and emotions, as well as clarify any issues or confusion. However, moderated testing can also be time-consuming, costly, and difficult to schedule, especially with different time zones and locations.

2 Unmoderated Testing

Unmoderated testing is a method where you let the participants complete the tasks on their own, without any intervention from you. You can use tools like UserTesting, Lookback, or TestFlight to record the screen, audio, and video of the participants, and then review the results later. Unmoderated testing can help you save time, money, and resources, as well as reach a larger and more diverse audience. However, unmoderated testing can also be less reliable, less interactive, and less informative, as you may miss some important details or feedback.

3 Guerrilla Testing

Guerrilla testing is a method where you test your app with random people in public places, such as cafes, parks, or malls. You can ask them to try your app for a few minutes, give them a brief scenario, and collect their feedback. Guerrilla testing can help you get quick and honest opinions, as well as validate your assumptions and hypotheses. However, guerrilla testing can also be risky, unpredictable, and biased, as you may encounter unqualified or uninterested participants, or face ethical or legal issues.

4 Beta Testing

Beta testing is a method where you release your app to a selected group of users before launching it to the public. You can invite them to join your beta program, provide them with access to your app, and ask them to report any bugs, errors, or suggestions. Beta testing can help you improve your app's quality, performance, and functionality, as well as build trust and loyalty with your users. However, beta testing can also be challenging, complex, and time-consuming, as you may need to manage multiple versions, platforms, and feedback channels.