Abstract

Usability testing and user experience research typically take place in a controlled lab with small groups. While this type of testing is essential to user experience design, more companies are also looking to test large sample sizes to be able compare data according to specific user populations and see how their experiences differ across user groups. But few usability professionals have experience in setting up these studies, analyzing the data, and presenting it in effective ways.  Online usability testing offers the solution by allowing testers to elicit feedback simultaneously from 1,000s of users. Beyond the Usability Lab offers tried and tested methodologies for conducting online usability studies. It gives practitioners the guidance they need to collect a wealth of data through cost-effective, efficient, and reliable practices. The reader will develop a solid understanding of the capabilities of online usability testing, when it’s appropriate to use and not use, and will learn about the various types of online usability testing techniques.

*The first guide for conducting large-scale user experience research using the internet *Presents how-to conduct online tests with 1000s of participants – from start to finish *Outlines essential tips for online studies to ensure cost-efficient and reliable results

"If you need to reach a large audience using online tools, this book will guide you, inform you, and help you with practical tips from a team that has a wealth of practical and academic experience. They explain how to plan, organise, conduct, analyse, and present your study, and they aren’t afraid to tackle tricky topics like dealing with possibly fraudulent participants. Highly recommended." -- Caroline Jarrett, Effortmark, Ltd, author of Forms that Work

"Beyond the Usability Lab will become the gold standard for how to conduct online usability studies.  Albert, Tedesco and Tullis masterfully combine strategic design related issues with tactical and practical step-by-step instructions on how to implement an online usability study."   -- Jim Berling, Managing Director, Burke Institute