There are generally three types of usability evaluation methods: Testing, Inspection, and Inquiry.
In Usability Testing approach, representative users work on typical tasks using the system (or the prototype) and the evaluators use the results to see how the user
interface supports the users to do their tasks. Testing methods include the following:
- Coaching Method
- Co-discovery Learning
- Performance Measurement
- Question-asking Protocol
- Remote Testing
- Retrospective Testing
- Shadowing Method
- Teaching Method
- Thinking Aloud Protocol
In Usability Inspection approach, usability specialists -- and sometimes software developers, users and other professionals -- examine usability-related aspects of a user interface. Commonly used Inspection methods are:
- Cognitive Walkthroughs
- Feature Inspection
- Heuristic Evaluation
- Pluralistic Walkthrough
- Perspective-based Inspection
Here, usability evaluators obtain information about users' likes, dislikes, needs, and understanding of the system by talking to them, observing them using the system in real work (not for the purpose of usability testing), or letting them answer questions verbally or in written form. Inquiry methods include:
Ask usability advisor about recommendations for usability evaluation methods for your project needs.
Extra: find a usability expert near you!
Usability Evaluation & Software Development Cycle. See how different usability evaluation methods can be used at different stages of software development life-cycle.
Cost of Usability Evaluation Methods
Find out how much it costs to run these usability evaluations.
Books:
- Shneiderman's "Designing the User Interface." (3rd ed.)
- The Design of Sites (2nd ed.)
by Van Duyne et al.
- Alan Cooper's "The Inmates Are Runing the Asylum."
Search for books:
Google News on Usability
Non-Descriptive Labeling Can Hurt Your SEO & Site Usability - Search Engine Land
Nurses will never adopt your tech if the usability sucks - VentureBeat
Esurance, GEICO and Progressive Top Web-Usability Rankings - Insurance Networking News
Facebook's Share Dialog for connected iOS apps promises enhanced usability ... - Apple Insider
Mobile Tools for Biz Travel Fail Usability Test - Travel Market Report
Invensys Enhances Usability of SimSci-Esscor Simulation Software - Automation World
Talend 5.3 focused on Hadoop usability - The H
KeyCue 6.5 teaches Sibelius shortcuts and offers usability enhancements - prMac (press release)
Notes:
- This Web site was originally developed when I was a summer intern at the Human Factors group of US WEST, with the help of Pawan Vora.
- The way to classify usability evaluation methods into testing, inspection,
and inquiry, and the description of some techniques, are borrowed
and used with permission from the Usability Methods Toolbox by Mr. James Hom.