Variations on Remote Usability Testing

The latest IBM Systems Journal features a nice writeup titled "Methodology for remote usability activities: A case study".  F.S.H. Krauss classifies remote usability activity into four categories:

1. real-time design walk-throughs and usability tests
2. surveys
3. automated usage tracking
4. handling of user-reported critical incidents

Number 4, user reported critical incidents, is the least explored in commercial settings but was one of the earliest uses of the phrase "remote usability testing" (Hartson, 1998).

The IBM article re-affirms the cost savings of remote testing and expresses value in moderated remote tests and usability focused surveys. Issues of firewalls and participant bandwidth are paramount, but the general conclusion is that the approach is of value.

Uzilla has additional tools for real time remote moderation in development.  Look for an announcement in the coming months.
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Posted at 10:25