SensoryMetrics

If you’re going to test users often throughout development – the process is going to have to be cheap and fast. The biggest cost (money and time) is usually spent on recruiting users, scheduling, and hosting. Ambush Usability avoids all that. What I typically do is purchase 10 $50 gift cards. I’ll set up in a public cafeteria, or coffeeshop, and casually look for pairs of people that would consider “chatting” about new products for 30-45 minutes. Recently I tested 5 pairs of users at Carleton University. Last week, I tested at Starbucks. The benefits of the approach is that it saves time – no scheduling, no travel for the users and they’re already relaxed and comfortable. Also, being in a public place reduces the intimidation. You do have to be discreet though – making sure you’re not seen as soliciting. It’s even better if the staff of the coffee shop already know you as a regular.

Usability “purists” will likely not like this method since it keeps their expensive consulting charges out of the equation. But to validate your tests – you can also plan on regular “formal” usability testing with specific user recruiting (typical cost – $3,500-5,000). Then – compare the results…

Tags: usability-testing

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