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Mark Buskbjerg

Dansk

Test your ideas with users

Test

From prototype to usable solution

Design Thinking is a process that puts users at the center and promotes creative problem-solving. One of the most crucial phases in this process is the test phase. But what is the test phase all about, and how can you make the most of it? Let’s dive into the details!

From prototype to usable solution

Imagine you’ve spent time creating a prototype. But how do you know if it really works? The test phase is your chance to find out. This is where you test your prototypes with real users and gather feedback to help you improve your solution.

The test phase isn’t just about confirming your assumptions. It’s also about discovering new insights, understanding users’ real needs, and iterating based on the feedback you receive. The goal is to ensure that your final solution is as user-friendly and effective as possible.

Testing in practice – step by step

Before diving into specific methods, let’s look at an overview of the test phase. Regardless of your approach, you’ll typically go through these steps:

  1. Planning: Define clear goals for the test and select the right users.
  2. Conduct the tests: Test your prototype with users and observe their interactions.
  3. Collect and analyze feedback: Gather user feedback and analyze what works and what needs improvement.
  4. Iterate: Use the feedback to adjust your prototype and repeat the testing process.

Techniques for the test phase

User Testing

User testing is one of the most common methods in the test phase. Invite real users to test your prototype and observe their interactions. Ask open-ended questions and listen to their feedback.

  • Example: Let users navigate a new app and observe where they encounter issues or get confused.

A/B Testing

A/B testing compares two versions of your prototype to see which performs better. This is especially useful for testing specific changes and their impact on user behavior.

  • Example: Test two different layouts of a website and see which version leads to more conversions.

Remote Testing

Remote testing allows you to test your prototype with users located elsewhere. Use tools like UserTesting or Lookback to get feedback from users no matter where they are.

  • Example: Share a prototype of a web application with users via an online platform and collect feedback through screen sharing and recordings.

Usability Testing

Usability testing focuses on identifying usability issues in your prototype. Conduct tests where users perform specific tasks and assess how easy or difficult they find them.

  • Example: Ask users to complete a purchase on your e-commerce platform and observe where they encounter difficulties.

Feedback Sessions

Invite users to feedback sessions where they can share their experiences and opinions about your prototype. These can take the form of interviews, focus groups, or surveys.

  • Example: Hold a focus group with potential users of a new product and discuss their impressions and suggestions for improvements.

Why is the test phase important?

The test phase is essential because it ensures that your final solution truly meets users’ needs. By testing your prototypes with real users, you can identify and fix problems early in the process. This saves time and resources and increases your chances of building a successful solution. Plus, it allows you to gather valuable feedback and insights that can inspire further innovation and refinement.

Practical tips for a successful test phase

  1. Define clear goals: Be clear about what you want to achieve with the test and what questions you need answered.
  2. Select the right users: Make sure to test with representative users who reflect your target audience.
  3. Observe and listen: Pay attention to user behavior and carefully listen to their feedback without influencing their experience.
  4. Iterate based on feedback: Be ready to make changes and repeat the testing process multiple times. Iteration is the key to success.

Test phase methods: From feedback to improvement

Once you have a prototype, it's time to test it with users. Here are some specific techniques to help you gather valuable feedback and improve your solution.

User Testing

Invite real users to try your prototype and observe their interactions. Ask open questions and listen to their feedback.

  • Example: Let users navigate a new app and observe where they encounter problems or confusion.

A/B Testing

Compare two versions of your prototype to see which performs better. Test specific changes and their impact on user behavior.

  • Example: Test two website layouts and see which version results in more conversions.

Remote Testing

Use tools like UserTesting or Lookback to test your prototype with users in different locations. Get feedback no matter where they are.

  • Example: Share a web application prototype with users via an online platform and collect feedback through screen recordings and screen sharing.

Usability Testing

Identify usability issues by having users complete specific tasks. Assess how easy or difficult these tasks are for them.

  • Example: Ask users to complete a purchase on your e-commerce site and observe where they struggle.

Feedback Sessions

Host feedback sessions where users can share their experiences and opinions. These can take the form of interviews, focus groups, or surveys.

  • Example: Organize a focus group with potential users of a new product and discuss their impressions and suggestions for improvements.

What is Design Thinking?

Design Thinking is a user-centered approach to problem-solving that focuses on understanding user needs and creating innovative solutions.

It involves an iterative process with five phases:

  • Empathize: Understand user needs through research and observation.
  • Define: Formulate a clear problem statement based on collected data.
  • Ideate: Generate a wide range of creative ideas.
  • Prototyping: Build quick and inexpensive models of your ideas.
  • Test: Try out prototypes with users and gather feedback.

Design Thinking promotes creativity, collaboration, and user involvement to create solutions that truly make a difference.

Get sharp on Design Thinking here

The key takeaway

The test phase in Design Thinking is essential for making sure your solutions truly meet user needs. By testing your prototypes with real users, you can catch problems early, gather valuable feedback, and iterate your ideas. This saves time and resources and increases the likelihood of success. So next time you have a prototype, take it through the test phase and watch it improve and evolve through feedback and iteration.