How to Test
a Paper Prototype
If you're already familiar with usability testing, paper
prototype testing isn't radically different. As in regular
usability testing, you bring in a user (or two) who
represents the target market, and have them perform realistic
tasks using the prototype. A facilitator, usually someone
trained in usability, runs the session. Members of the development
team are observers, taking notes about what works well
for the users and what confuses them.
Not familiar with usability testing? You'll
want to read chapter 8, and other
books devoted to usability
testing, such as the ones by Barnum,
Dumas
& Redish, and Rubin.
You may want to consider bringing in a usability
consultant to help you the first couple of times.
The "Computer"
The main difference in paper prototype testing is the addition
of the human Computer, who manipulates the paper interface
pieces to mimic the behavior of the system. Users are instructed
to "click" (touch) buttons or links, and "type"
(handwrite) data directly onto the prototype. The Computer
responds to those actions as the system would. The Computer
does not explain the interface (most machines can't talk),
so it's up to the users to figure out how to accomplish their
tasks.
Being the Computer does not require any special training,
though this role should be played by someone who understands
how the interface behaves. Typically, the Computer is one
of the lead developers, though technical writers, marketers,
training specialists, and customer support reps may also have
sufficient knowledge of the product to play this role. Some
teams find it helpful to have a second person as a Co-processor.
Regardless of who is Computer, they should practice the tasks
a few times before the first usability test.
The Facilitator
The Facilitator role requires a bit of training, though it
can be learned by anyone with decent social skills and a keen
interest in usability. The facilitator's main responsibility
is to ensure that the session isn't too stressful on the test
participants, who tend to blame themselves when they run into
difficulty with the interface. On the other hand, the facilitator
needs to probe into the issues that arise, so the development
team can get the information they need to make improvements
to the interface. Sometimes these responsibilities can conflict,
so the facilitator must tread carefully.
Usability
Consultants
Most usability consultants are experienced in facilitating
usability tests, and some can even teach you how to do this
for yourself. Paper Prototyping author Carolyn Snyder
offers usability test facilitation and training through her
company Snyder
Consulting.
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