What task types are best for different platforms in Usability Testing?

2 Exploratory tasks

Exploratory tasks are another common task type for usability testing, as they allow users to freely explore and discover your product without a predefined goal or instruction. For example, you can ask your users to browse your app and see what features or content they find interesting or useful. Exploratory tasks are ideal for testing new or innovative products, as they can reveal how users perceive and understand your product, what they expect from it, and what problems or frustrations they encounter. Exploratory tasks are particularly suitable for software and physical devices, as they can test the usability, the learnability, the aesthetics, and the satisfaction of your product.

3 Comparison tasks

Comparison tasks are a less common but still useful task type for usability testing, as they ask users to compare two or more versions of your product or different products in the same category. For example, you can ask your users to compare the design, the features, or the performance of your website with that of your competitors, and to explain their preferences and opinions. Comparison tasks are great for testing the value proposition, the differentiation, and the user feedback of your product. Comparison tasks can be applied to any platform or device, as long as you provide users with a clear and fair basis for comparison.

4 Instructional tasks

Instructional tasks are a specific task type for usability testing, as they require users to follow a set of instructions or steps to complete a task. For example, you can ask your users to follow a tutorial or a guide to set up your software or device, and to report any difficulties or errors they encounter. Instructional tasks are useful for testing the onboarding, the support, and the error handling of your product. Instructional tasks are mostly suitable for software and physical devices, as they can test the complexity, the clarity, and the reliability of your product.

5 Creative tasks

Creative tasks are a rare but fun task type for usability testing, as they challenge users to use your product in a creative or unexpected way. For example, you can ask your users to create a collage, a meme, or a song using your app, and to share their results and feedback. Creative tasks are beneficial for testing the engagement, the enjoyment, and the loyalty of your product. Creative tasks are mainly suitable for apps and physical devices, as they can test the functionality, the flexibility, and the personality of your product.

Choosing the right task type for the right platform is not a one-size-fits-all solution, but rather a matter of understanding your product goals, your user needs, and your testing objectives. By using a mix of different task types, you can gain a comprehensive and holistic view of your product usability across different platforms and devices.