Usability Testing

Usability testing is a technique that can validate user interface designs and reveal areas requiring refinement. The basic concept is to simply observe representative end users as they operate the interface. Usability testing methods can range from one or two users working at a time to an interactive group session.

The Human Factors group can work with you to develop and implement the usability test strategy that will best fit your needs. The goal of usability testing is to uncover any problems that users may encounter so those problems can be fixed and quality ensured. We use methods such as cognitive task analysis, heuristic evaluations, accessibility compliance evaluations, and usability testing with actual end-users to determine the strengths and areas of need for a given product. We have the expertise to help you reach this goal.  

Past projects by the Human Factors group that incorporate usability testing include:

Head-mounted Displays
We conducted a usability test of glasses-mounted displays in the field. Specific tasks included the evaluation of visual properties in varying lighting conditions, assessment of personal maneuverability and performance, determination of fit and comfort, and assessment of obscuration.

Logistics Command and Control Information System (LOCIS)
We have been involved in several aspects of developing this command and control system for wing-level logistics. Specific tasks included defining user-centered requirements, developing a system interface structure, and conducting several usability evaluations.

Corporate Services Website 
We conducted heuristic evaluations, accessibility compliance testing, and usability testing to improve the site design.