I must Try Usability Testing

Posted At : August 27, 2008 9:00 AM | Posted By : Steve
Related Categories: Usability

Last week I read two books that combined to convince me that I need to start really pushing usability testing.

I have been encouraging clients to do this for some time now, but in the small voice "it might be a good idea, if you have the budget" way. Needless to say, that hasn't gotten any traction. I believed in it, but I didn't believe in it.

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I'd recommend Designing the Obvious and Designing the Moment, both by Robert Hoekman Jr
# Posted By Jamie | 8/27/08 9:51 AM
Jamie,

Thanks for the recommendations. I have added them to my reading list.
# Posted By Steve Bryant | 8/27/08 9:28 PM
+1 for Designing the Obvious by Robert Hoekman Jr. I've ordered Designing the Moment but it hasn't arrived yet!
# Posted By John Whish | 8/28/08 1:18 AM
thanks for the book recommendation :) i might order it. Looks interesting!
# Posted By Lara | 8/28/08 1:21 AM
An approach that we have is to focus on what the user is trying to do. It isn't so much don't make me think as it is don't distract me from what I am trying to do. Of course the book by that title is a great book and people should consider reading it. :) One thing that is common in the new trends of AJAX and RIA is to push cute and cool over usability. A good rule of thumb is if you have to explain it the system isn't as usable as it could be.
# Posted By John Farrar | 8/29/08 12:42 PM
John,

Definitely a good point. When people mention AJAX, I always think that I don't do any. Truth is, that I do a very little of it but it relatively subtle ways (and following progressive enhancement).
# Posted By Steve Bryant | 8/29/08 4:02 PM
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