Remote Usability Testing

Normal Modes is the leader in remote usability testing, interviewing more than 1,000 remote participants across the world since we started.

Much like traditional usability testing, remote usability testing relies on structured user interviews with a live moderator. We find remote usability testing has two key advantages over traditional usability testing:

• Flexibility - Remote usability testing allows us to connect with your users anywhere in the world. In 2012, we conducted testing with users on five continents.
• Environment - User interviews are conducted in the participant's usual working environment with the hardware and software they use on a day-to-day basis. Because participants are using their daily setup, we often uncover surprising behavior - like referencing their own records to make a decision, reaching out to co-workers for technical support, and completing portions of tasks outside the interface.

Methodology & Timeline

Remote Usability Testing Methodology & Timeline 6-9 weeks (Slide 1 of 9)

At Normal Modes, we follow a three phase approach to all our usability testing projects:
     Phase 1: Planning & Recruiting (3-4 weeks)
     Phase 2: Testing (1 week)
     Phase 3: Analysis & Reporting (2-3 weeks)

Kickoff Meeting & Test Plan Phase 1: Planning & Recruiting (Slide 2 of 9)

All projects begin with a kickoff meeting, during which we go over your study objectives, burning questions, high level tasks and use case scenarios, and user demographics. Based on that conversation, we'll develop a test plan document that summarizes the project and identifies exact testing dates.

Participant Recruiting Phase 1: Planning & Recruiting(Slide 3 of 9)

Based on the target audience, we'll also develop the participant screener that'll be used to qualify or disqualify potential participants in the study. For example, if your target audience is Republican males who voted in the last election, we'll craft a screener that will carefully eliminate all potential participants who don't meet that criteria. Once the screener is defined, our recruiting team can begin recruiting participants for the study and filling up all our scheduled timeslots.

Moderator's Guide Phase 1: Planning & Recruiting (Slide 4 of 9)

At the same time, we'll develop the moderator's guide - the "script" (like a play!) that'll drive the entire interview. Working with you, we convert use case scenarios from the test plan into tasks for the participants to complete. It is important to make sure each participant is given the same instructions and tasks throughout the interview process so we're comparing apples to apples. The moderator's guide also notes which areas of the application to probe with the participant to collect the information necessary to meet testing objectives.

Watch real people use your stuff! Phase 2: Testing (Slide 5 of 9)

Finally - the fun begins! Remote usability testing is typically conducted over the course of several consecutive days - the number of days depends on the number and length of sessions. Testing typically begins as early as 7am and ends as late as 9pm, depending on the location of participants, moderator, and observers.

Observe Remotely or from our Houston Facility Phase 2: Testing (Slide 6 of 9)

All stakeholders are strongly encouraged to observe at least one usability testing session. Testing is typically observed online from the comfort of your home or office. Alternatively, you can watch from our state-of-the-art testing facility in Houston, Texas, which features comfy Herman Miller chairs, as well as fresh healthy snacks and beverages.

Analysis Phase 3: Analysis & Reporting (Slide 7 of 9)

Within 3 business days after testing, we'll deliver a "topline" report detailing the major findings we observed during testing. This topline report forms the basis of our final report, so there shouldn't be any surprises when the report arrives.

Report Writing Phase 3: Analysis & Reporting (Slide 8 of 9)

For our full testing report we analyze metrics collected and develop a comprehensive, prioritized list of findings. We also focus on developing a constructive list of recommendations based on participant feedback and our team's combined years of experience, rather than just giving you a list of problems with no solutions. We'll iterate up to three times with you to make sure the final reporting documents and videos are exactly suited to your needs.

Report Delivery Phase 3: Analysis & Reporting (Slide 9 of 9)

We deliver all reports 2-weeks after testing sessions are complete. We review all findings and recommendations in a 1-hour conference call with key stakeholders. We encourage Q&A throughout the report delivery.

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