The purpose of testing and measuring is to assess the degree to which user and organisational requirements have been achieved, and to provide feedback in a form that can be used by designers and developers to improve the user interface design.
There are a number of different evaluation methods that vary in terms of formality, rigidity and the degree of user participation. The most suitable method will depend on the product being developed, the availability of representative users and financial/time restrictions.
Evaluation can be user based or expert based. User based testing will provide information related to the task at hand - does this design support the user in their work. Expert inspections tend to identify lack of conformity to standards, interface design guidelines and expert comments based on experience.
There are two objectives for testing and measuring:
These methods should be used to improve early machine prototypes.
These methods should be used to test final prototypes. The methods will also provide diagnostic information that can be used to make last minute improvements, or provide requirements for the next release.
In addition to evaluating for usability it can also be beneficial to evaluate the product for pleasure.
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