Usability Testing
PSE's usability services can identify and remedy design shortcomings in a wide range of products, including software applications, Internet and Intranet websites, medical and consumer devices, and military systems. We apply human factors usability methods to reduce human error and increase ease of learning, remembering, and use.
PSE can provide complete "turn-key" testing, from finding users to analyzing results and making recommendations. Our usability lab is also available on a daily or weekly basis. The lab facilitates collection of both qualitative and quantitative data using state-of-the-art audio-visual and performance measurement equipment. Clients are encouraged to bring members of their design and marketing staffs to work independently or with our human factors and usability experts.
Our usability testing services include those that collect data from users and analytical services that may not involve users. We can help you decide which is most appropriate for your product design and development needs.
Direct User Testing
- Usability Testing : Observing and evaluating actual users as they perform tasks with your product.
- Focus Groups : Soliciting opinions, reactions, and preferences from actual or potential users of your product.
Analytical Services
- Heuristic Evaluation : Usability experts assess your product in terms of its human factors and ergonomic properties.
- Standard and Guideline Review : Determining how well your product adheres to human factors standards and guidelines.
- Cognitive Walkthrough : Human factors experts identify and analyze the actions required to use your product.
- Pluralistic Walkthrough : Similar to a cognitive walkthrough, except the people involved in product development are present, such as interface designers, developers, marketing staff, and management.
- Task Analysis : A complete description of user tasks and goals; serves as the basis for recommending ways to increase product usability.
- Prototyping : Developing alternative versions of a device, interface or system for comparative testing early in the development process.
