What are the most common methods for usability testing in design?

1 Moderated testing

Moderated testing involves a facilitator who guides the user through a set of tasks and scenarios, observes their actions and reactions, and asks questions to elicit feedback. The facilitator can be in the same room as the user, or conduct the test remotely via video call or screen sharing. Moderated testing allows for more in-depth exploration of user motivations, emotions, and expectations, as well as clarification of any issues or confusion. However, it can also be more time-consuming, costly, and prone to bias than other methods.

2 Unmoderated testing

Unmoderated testing does not involve a facilitator, but relies on the user to complete the tasks and scenarios on their own, using a software tool or platform that records their interactions and responses. The user can do the test at their own pace and convenience, without any influence or interference from the facilitator. Unmoderated testing can be more efficient, scalable, and objective than moderated testing, as well as more suitable for testing with a large and diverse sample of users. However, it can also be less flexible, interactive, and insightful than moderated testing, as well as more dependent on the quality of the instructions and questions.

3 Think aloud testing

Think aloud testing is a technique that asks the user to verbalize their thoughts, feelings, and opinions as they use the product or service. It can be done in a moderated or unmoderated setting, but it requires the user to have a microphone or a voice recorder. Think aloud testing can help capture the user's cognitive processes, mental models, and emotional states, as well as identify any gaps, errors, or frustrations in the user experience. However, it can also be challenging for some users to articulate their thoughts, or to maintain a natural and realistic behavior while talking.

4 Eye tracking testing

Eye tracking testing is a technique that uses a device or a software to measure and record the user's eye movements, gaze patterns, and pupil dilation as they use the product or service. It can be done in a moderated or unmoderated setting, but it requires the user to have a camera or a sensor. Eye tracking testing can help reveal the user's attention, interest, and engagement, as well as detect any areas of confusion, distraction, or overload in the user interface. However, it can also be expensive, complex, and intrusive for some users, as well as affected by external factors such as lighting, noise, or fatigue.

5 A/B testing

A/B testing is a technique that compares two or more versions of the same product or service, with one or more variations in the design elements, features, or content. It can be done in a moderated or unmoderated setting, but it requires the user to have access to the different versions of the product or service. A/B testing can help evaluate the impact of design changes on user behavior, performance, and satisfaction, as well as determine the optimal design solution based on quantitative data. However, it can also be limited, misleading, or inconclusive if the variations are too subtle, too drastic, or too many, or if the sample size, duration, or metrics are not adequate.

6 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?