• The user completely reads the scenario aloud.
• The user starts doing the work.
• If the user stays silent for too long, the facilitator gently reminds her to talk aloud.
• Occasionally the facilitator will ask the user to clarify what she is thinking, especially when there is a difficulty.
• After the test, the facilitator and the observers will go through their notes.
• The facilitator may want to record one set of 'group notes' that generalize what everyone has observed.

• Conduct another meeting to analyze all of the 'group notes.'
• Sometimes called the 'wrap-up' meeting.
• Make an effort to identify the underlying issues.
• There are always issues common to different observations, different users, or different scenarios.
• The best way to analyze all of the group notes is by using post-its.
• Each 'group note' is on a separate post-it.
• In the wrap-up, the team associates the separate post-its into higher level groupings.
• The team writes down a name for each issue represented by a post-it grouping.
• After issues are identified, the team discusses which issues are most important.
• The team then decides which issues can be addressed given the project deadlines and resources.
• The team also may propose design changes or other solutions to the issues identified.

Delivering the usability results

• The most effective way to convey the usability test results is through a meeting with managers.
• Typically the facilitator also writes detailed reports.
• The report is organized by having each issue paired with suggested design changes or other solutions.
• Screen shots to illustrate the issues or design ideas are very helpful.
  

If this all sounds like too much...

• The essence of a usability test is to have someone else objectively work through a technology design while being observed.
• This can be done with as little as a few minutes of preparation, then walking to desks to ask people to try something on the computer. And then to be quiet and listen well as they try it.
• Or this can be done with weeks of preparation, with testers recruited professionally, in a fully-equipped usability lab facility.
• The reality is usually somewhere between these extremes.
• *Any* kind of usability testing is far better than no usability testing.

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