A test with representative users as they attempt to use a system to achieve critical tasks. The test is analysed against pre-defined user acceptance criteria and usually videoed to provide supporting evidence for key findings.
Typically a User Evaluation is conducted within a specialised usability lab, however, tests can also be run in context of where users normally perform their tasks or even remotely if users are in diverse locations or countries.
The purpose of a User Evaluation is to discover usability issues or areas of user dis-satisfaction with an existing system. Findings are used to either recommend a set of quick fixes that will improve user attitudes or user performance, or identify areas where a more detailed plan of action is required.
As sample sizes are typically low for user evaluations, findings can be inconclusive if there is a wide variation in results. However, User Evaluations are a recognised method for measuring the usability of a system and how acceptable the solution will be to other users matching the participant’s profile.
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