Prototype Testing
Prototype testing is an evaluative research activity where simplified and often incomplete versions of a proposed product or feature (aka prototypes) are tested to gather feedback. This iterative process aims to validate design concepts, uncover usability issues, and refine user experience before full-scale development.
Goal
The primary goal is to minimise the risks associated with product development by identifying user needs and expectations early.
Context
New features require users to change their behaviour. This is impossible to predict accurately until we see how users interact with the feature. Prototype testing is a way to validate these assumptions before we invest too much time and effort into building a solution.
Prototype Formats
| Format | Description |
|---|---|
| Paper Prototypes | Hand-drawn sketches of the user interface, useful for early-stage idea validation. |
| Wireframes | Low-fidelity, static designs that outline the structure and layout of a product. |
| Digital Mockups | Static designs created using design software, offering a more polished look without interactive elements. |
| Clickable Prototypes | Interactive models that simulate user flows and interactions, usually developed with prototyping tools. |
| High-Fidelity Prototypes | Advanced prototypes that closely mimic the final product, including both visuals and functionality. |
Inputs
| Artifact | Description |
|---|---|
| Experiment Plan | A detailed document outlining the experiment objectives, methods, timeline, and success criteria. |
| Usability Test Guide | A guide for the moderator to follow during a usability test, including the tasks to be performed, the questions to be asked, and the data to be collected. |
| Prototypes | A prototype of the solution or feature to be evaluated. The fidelity of the prototype should be appropriate for the level of confidence in the solution and the assumption being tested. |
Outputs
| Artifact | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Validated Assumptions | A list of assumptions that have been validated. |
|
| Invalidated Assumptions | A list of assumptions that have been invalidated. |
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Anti-patterns
- Over-reliance on High-Fidelity Prototypes: Investing too much time in making prototypes too detailed early on.
- Ignoring Negative Feedback: Disregarding constructive criticism that could lead to significant improvements.
- Prototype Testing in Isolation: Conducting tests without considering the broader context of the user experience.