User experience testing is a particularly useful method for evaluating the effectiveness of a platform or product. Primarily used in user studies, user experience testing helps determine whether or not crucial aspects of a web application are feasible. User experience refers to the process of testing various elements of a website to determine the most favorable experience for a website’s audience. User experience testing is a common technique for user studies and allows developers to assess the functionality and appeal of their websites.
An effective example of user experience testing is dedicating the first ten or more minutes of a user study to free-roam navigation. With the help of a sizable group of volunteers, it is important to allow for the group to take in the elements of a website providing little to no information about the intended purpose of the website. In the user experience testing part of a user study, the volunteers should navigate the web application individually to minimize bias and should not receive any tasks. Each volunteer should be encouraged to navigate a web application with a think-out-loud approach for best results. This is one of the most critical aspects of user experience testing because it allows for the person conducting the user study to get a glimpse into the mind of the user.
In conducting a user study, request for a recording of the session and be sure to take plenty of notes. After the user experience testing segment of the user study concludes, consider those aspects of the website that stood out to the volunteer group. Important aspects of a website to assess through user experience testing include, but are not limited to: easy navigation, clear access to information, and a comprehensible mission communicated throughout the website. Both positive and negative feedback from user experience testing are extremely valuable in shaping the website to accurately reflect a user’s best possible experience.
If a volunteer is able to effectively use navigation for the intended purposes of the website and does not have trouble finding website content, it is safe to say that the website is successful. However, successful does not equate to complete. When it comes to user interface (UI) content, websites always need tending to, as user needs and desired features change relatively often. After a positive user experience testing session, the elements that receive the most praise may also be accentuated more through further altercations. The next time you conduct a user study, consider including user experience testing to introduce your web application. The results of user experience testing can only aid in creating a pleasant web experience.