Usability Testing Phase
From GSLIS IA Project
Contents |
[edit] Usability Testing and Paper prototyping Phase
Team leaders: Jen Langley and Yvonne Fraser
[edit] What is Paper Prototyping?
Paper prototyping is a method of conducting usability testing. Subjects work with a paper version of the interface, created in a software program. The participant interacts with the paper screens by indicating what actions they would take (eg, typing words, clicking on a button, what steps they would take next, etc.
[edit] Why do we do it?
This type of usability testing allows the team to test the architecture using paper prototypes before actually writing any code for the site. As the volunteers encounter problems in completing the task, we can change the site’s organization.
[edit] How do we do it?
We will need various representatives from the GSLIS community – from current students, prospective students, alumni, faculty, and staff.
With this information we will create scenarios. Scenarios from typical scenes where students have been unable to complete tasks in the past using the GSLIS websites. With these tasks, we will begin testing with a paper representation of the GSLIS websites. It may be hard to visualize, so here is a link to a YouTube video that shows exactly how a paper prototyping test works: http://tinyurl.com/2nf3wm
[edit] What will Paper Prototyping do for the GSLIS site?
The testing will reveal some of the inherent problems that lay in the present architecture of the GSLIS websites. From the results, we hope to suggest paths to reformat the information architecture that ultimately will allow the user to find the information they seek in a quick and satisfying manner--whether a prospective student in search of answers on how to register for a class, current students wondering when the spring break begins, or professors trying to figure out how to post their grades and all without having to resort to picking up the telephone and asking for help.
[edit] Where are we now?
- Completed Phase 1 of testing. Analyzed data which lead to changes in the IA.
- Reworked IA, recreated and printed prototypes.
- Updated scenarios, task worksheets and protocol.
- Updated speadsheet for Phase 2.
- Restocked Usability Lab.
- Soliciting volunteers via postings to the main College announcements pages and an
- announcement to GSLIS faculty members.
- Scheduling volunteers for Phase 2.
- Compiled information from worksheets into a usable format for easy analysis.
[edit] How can I help?
We are recruiting users to take part in the paper prototype testing. If you would like to participate please send us an email: gslisia@simmons.edu [[1]]. Testing is in progress and will continue through Friday November 9th. It's fun and we have lots of Candy to share!
