Card Sorting
One-on-one interviews; respondents
sort and categorize index cards labeled with potential site content and
functionality; also provides feedback on nomenclature and labeling
Wireframe Concept Testing
One-on-one or small group (3-on-1)
interviews; various wireframes (absent design) are exposed to determine which
organization potentially best meets their needs; also provides feedback on
nomenclature and labeling
Paper Prototype Testing
One-on-one interview; respondents
are guided through the site to complete a task using a number of paper
wireframes (with little or no design) to simulate a complete user experience;
also provides feedback on nomenclature and labeling
Prototype Usability Testing
One-on-one interviews; respondents
are asked to complete a number of predetermined tasks on their own using a
functioning prototype (with or without design); also provides feedback on nomenclature
and labeling
Design Concept Testing
One-on-one or small group (3-on-1)
interviews; fully designed site concepts are exposed either as static pages, or
in the context of a prototype, to elicit response about the brand; also ensures
that the design does not diminish the site usability
Usability Testing
One-on-one interviews; respondents
are asked to perform a number of predetermine tasks on the fully functioning
site; respondents are also often given the opportunity to “surf” the site and
provide overall feedback on design, layout, etc.