Usability Testing

Usability testing provides a valuable opportunity to evaluate web-based or print-based intervention materials with representative users before they are implemented in a full-scale research study. Including usability testing in the development and formative stages of intervention planning ensures that users will understand your intervention messages and can use the technology as intended. During the usability test, participants "think out loud" as they search, browse, or complete specific tasks while a usability specialist asks questions and probes on specific areas. Usability test findings can then be used to refine the intervention design before implementation. The CHAI Core Usability Specialist (also our internet architect) will assist with IRB preparation and protocol design. She has experience in conducting and videotaping usability testing sessions both in a formal usability lab and in field settings with a wide range of user populations.