Testing is integral to the design process. In the testing process, we as the evaluator will collect the information about the targeted user's experiences when interacting with our prototype. The testing process also can be one of the methods to improve our design based on their feedback. There are two main focuses on the testing process which are usability of the system and the user experience when they interact with our prototype.
We should examine:
•Why: to check users’ requirements and that users can use the product and they like it.
•What: a conceptual model, early prototypes of a new system and later, more complete prototypes.
•Where: in natural and laboratory settings.
•When: throughout the design; finished.
There have three types of testing which include controlled setting, natural setting and any setting not involving users.
1. Controlled settings should involve users, for example, usability testing where the users try out the prototype.
2. Natural settings also involves users. but in natural ways such as the field of studies.
3. Any setting did not involve users such as consultants critique and etc.
Test Cycle involve three steps. Starting from test instruction, testing with users and the last one is research and analysis.
Test instruction is prepared and give the instruction for the testing process. It like prepare the task that the targeted users should be performed on the prototype; for example, Select your favourite movie.
Testing with users is simple to test the prototype with any targeted users. It should have three in-person testings which are user, moderator and observer.
Research and analysis are being done after the testing users have done. We can analyst the result based on qualitative and quantitative.
Heuristic Evaluation
Heuristic evaluation is a process where experts use rules of thumb to measure the usability of the user interfaces in independent walkthroughs and report issues.
How to conduct Heuristic Evaluation
1. Establish an appropriate list of heuristics
2. Select the evaluators
3. Do brief to the evaluator
4. First evaluation phase
5. Second evaluation phase
6. Record the problems.
7. Debriefing session.
Reflection
In this chapter, I learn how to test our system from the prototype. This kind of testing is to ensure that our system or application is well to be used or not. For example, after I create a sample house, I can collect feedback or idea from other users like my family or friends. From their feedback, I can improve my model before I construct the real house. So testing is very important before build the real system.