Usability Testing Does Not Equal A Good User Experience

by Paul Sherman on April 22, 2009 · 4 comments

in Experience Strategy

Here’s a pointer to a very short article I wrote for my UX friends in Hong Kong at Apogee.

Usability Testing Does Not Equal A Good User Experience ::? Paul Sherman via Apogee

Tagged as: Experience Strategy, User Experience, UX, Windows

http://www.goodusability.co.uk David Hamill

Hi Paul, I agree with this article. Usability testing isn't about creating an experience. It's about finding the bloopers in an existing one. I see what you mean about it being tactical. If you use the correct techniques you can identify elements of its strategic suitability. But if it isn't suitable, it's really too late by then.

The best way of doing this is to do your research up front to find out what approach is strategically most suitable.

I've tested quite a few websites where the over-riding issue I identify is that the website shouldn't exist.
http://www.hollyphillips.net Holly P

I totally agree – but be sure not to define “usability testing” too narrowly. We use the term to include not only testing of final or semi-final designs, but also concept testing, very early wireframe testing, and continuous customer-centered-design. When done right, that type of testing can indeed help define and create a cohesive customer experience across the site.

As you rightly point out though, the hard part often comes when testing is attached to a particular project which happens in isolation of other projects. That's when a strong long-term vision can ensure the recommendations get applied to more than just that project.

Keep up the great articles!
http://www.superuserstudio.com Stu Collett

Hey Paul,

Great point. I've too found that products are only successful when there's been a good focus on strategy and scope. I agree with David's comment that research up front is super important.

Thanks!
http://www.superuserstudio.com Stu Collett

Hey Paul,

Great point. I've too found that products are only successful when there's been a good focus on strategy and scope. I agree with David's comment that research up front is super important.

Thanks!