Module 3: Prototyping, Testing & Experimentation
6 Acts of Testing
Similar to interviewing, testing your prototype with a user follows different stages.
1. Friendly welcome
Start with small-talk, be natural, informative, and build rapport.
2. Context questions
Understand your user. How does your prototype fit his/her life and work?
3. Prototype introduction
Ask for permission to test the prototype. Also, explain that it is merely a prototype and thus value all feedback. Last, elaborate on your role and encourage out-loud thinking.
4. Detailed tasks
Now it is time to interact with the prototype. But, be cautious, don't explain the entire process. Let the test user interact with it on its own and adhere to the 20:80 rule.
5. Quick debrief
Ask a few debriefing questions to help the customer to articulate his reactions. For instance, what did you like about this product/ service?
6. Thank and wrap-up
Thank the user for participating and ensure that the feedback was useful. Ask whether he/she is interested in testing the next iterations, and don't forget to stay attentive to any additional comments.