Usability Lab Setup
Issues
- Recording the interaction
- Avoiding distraction
- Observing the interaction
- Interacting with participant
- Creating a natural and realistic setting
- Convenient location for participants
Some solutions for recording the interaction
- Log sheets (anticipated user actions)
- Notes (unanticipated user actions)
- Automated data logging
- Screen and audio recording
- Video recording
Some lab solutions for minimizing distraction
- Keep distance between participant and observers
- Use a quiet room
- One-way mirror
- Camera monitoring
Range of settings
Usability tests have been conducted in a wide range of settings. Here are some examples:
- Computer lab
- Conference room
- Floor of a tradeshow
- Office, including participant's office
- On site location
- Formal usability lab
Photos of CDM Lab in Room 805