Defining Successful Steps in Usability Testing
Set the goal for testing your prototype and unlock the Why in your users’ behaviors and activities

Write a usability testing interview guide
- Describe a scenario your user might encounter in using the app.
- Give a quick introduction to the topic of the app.
- Write out at least 3 task flows you want the user to navigate through without your help. Keep the tasks broad.
{ e.g.: Try to find a wine store near you and find out about their opening hours. }
Identify your test users
- A minimum of 5 users should be available to test your prototype. Develop a screener if your test users need to meet a specific criteria. For instance, age or demographic group.
- Make sure your tech is working, do a tech check prior to starting your interview. Accommodate your user in a comfortable setting. You want your usability test to go smoothly.
Describe the scenario and start with the first task flow
- Settle your user into your testing space. Tell them the topic. Start with asking them to perform a task flow. Explain that every action is valid, there is no right or wrong. Ask them to speak out loud about what they are doing and what their thoughts are while doing it.
{ e.g.: You are meeting your friends on Sunday afternoon for happy hour. You want to find a nice French bistro near you for your get together. Find a place that fits your plan and find out about the drink selection.}
- Observe your users as they click and navigate through the app. Use silence to let your user feel unpressured. Don’t interrupt their flow. When they feel stuck, put them at ease and let them explore and try different things. Don’t try to nudge or prod them.
- Never assume you know your users’ thoughts, and don’t project that they will behave the way you expect.
- Move on to the next task flow when your user has arrived at the goal in their previous task flow.
Remember, people don’t always do what they mean, or act the way they say they do.
Get the user to tell you their thoughts as they persue the tasks you have asked them to do
- If the user is silent, remind them to verbalize their actions. However, don’t interrupt.
Keep notes of the user’s clicks, how they navigate, how they interpret visual clues, how they improvise, and how they explore on their own. Observe their expressions and body language.
Ask for feedback on what they liked about the app, what they were missing, and what they disliked
- Be open about feedback. Ask the user to be candid about how useful they found the app to be. Ask them Why!
{ e.g.: I could not find a French Bistro right away because it took me a while to find the search window.}
In summary
