What is Moderated Usability Testing?

Moderated Usability Testing is a research method where a facilitator guides participants through a usability test in a synchronous environment. The facilitator ensures that the session runs smoothly while remaining neutral to obtain unbiased feedback from users.

When to use Moderated Usability Testing?

This testing method is ideal when you need in-depth qualitative data about user interactions with a product. It is particularly useful in the early stages of product development or when significant changes have been made to existing features, as it allows for direct observation of user behavior and immediate clarification of any issues.

When not to use Moderated Usability Testing?

Moderated Usability Testing may not be suitable for large-scale tests where quantitative data is more important than qualitative insights. Additionally, if the product is already well-established and minor tweaks are being evaluated, unmoderated testing methods may be more efficient.

What is the anatomy of Moderated Usability Testing?

The anatomy includes several key components: the facilitator, participants, the testing environment, tasks to be completed, and methods of data collection. The facilitator plays a crucial role in guiding the session, while the participants engage with the product, completing predefined tasks that help identify usability issues.