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Run Usability Tests
Plan, conduct, and analyze usability tests from test design to actionable insights.
2-3 weeks
6 steps
Overview
A comprehensive usability testing playbook that guides you through planning, recruiting, conducting, and analyzing usability tests. This workflow covers everything from test scenarios to reporting findings, with specific prompts for each step.
Prerequisites
- Product or prototype to test
- Access to target users or recruitment budget
- Testing tools (screen recording, note-taking)
- Time for analysis and reporting
Steps
1
Test Planning
1 dayDefine test objectives, scenarios, and success criteria.
Prompts to use:
Deliverables:
- •Test plan document
- •Test scenarios
- •Success criteria
- •Research questions
Tips:
- •Focus on critical user flows
- •Keep scenarios realistic
- •Define clear success criteria
2
Test Protocol
4 hoursCreate test script and moderator guide.
Prompts to use:
Deliverables:
- •Moderator script
- •Introduction script
- •Task scenarios
- •Post-test questions
Tips:
- •Practice the script before testing
- •Keep questions open-ended
- •Prepare follow-up questions
3
Participant Recruitment
1 weekRecruit and schedule test participants.
Prompts to use:
Deliverables:
- •Recruited participants
- •Scheduled sessions
- •Backup participants
Tips:
- •Recruit 5-8 participants (diminishing returns after 5)
- •Screen carefully for fit
- •Have 2-3 backups ready
4
Conduct Tests
1 hour per sessionRun usability test sessions and capture observations.
Deliverables:
- •Test recordings
- •Session notes
- •Key observations
- •Quotes and clips
Tips:
- •Record sessions (with permission)
- •Take notes during, detailed notes after
- •Look for patterns across sessions
5
Analyze Findings
2-3 daysSynthesize test results into actionable insights.
Prompts to use:
Deliverables:
- •Findings report
- •Issue severity matrix
- •Recommendations
- •Success metrics summary
Tips:
- •Categorize issues by severity
- •Look for patterns, not just individual issues
- •Prioritize fixes based on impact
6
Share Results
1 dayPresent findings and recommendations to stakeholders.
Prompts to use:
Deliverables:
- •Test report
- •Presentation deck
- •Video clips (if applicable)
- •Action items
Tips:
- •Lead with key findings, not methodology
- •Use video clips to bring findings to life
- •Include clear recommendations and priorities