In-person user testing is the most effective measure of success. Everyone wants an assurance of return on investment when embarking on a new media project. Interface Guru™ is committed to in-person user testing as the most reliable form of risk analysis.

Knowing what your user does is not the same as understanding why they do it.

While some remote methods yield useful metrics (such as server logs and WebTrends™ reports), you will never really understand *why* users take-- or don't take-- certain actions unless you observe them directly. Some companies test users remotely by observing a click stream. Again, they can see what a user did, but they will probably not be able to tell you why they did it.

How does user testing work?

We examine your business model and your existing or proposed Web site. We then design a test and administer it, with live human subjects representative of your audience. We strongly encourage our clients to observe user tests-- the insights are invaluable.

Where does user testing take place?

We strongly recommend testing in our usability laboratory. Test moderators and clients observe the user interacting with the Web site via a one-way mirror. Sometimes we test on-site (contextual testing) in cases where Web site usage is specific to a physical location.

What do I get if I contract for user testing?

We record every user test in our laboratory, capturing the person's mouse actions on the Web page as well as their facial expressions and comments. You receive a video of each test, as well as a written report and analysis.

Is user testing expensive?

NO. It's actually less expensive to test users first, and develop your Web presence after. Why? Because your online success depends on user acceptance. Many sites offer features that users ignore or even actively dislike. Unless you test users in person, you will not completely understand their abilities, needs, and acceptance of your Web site.

Benefits of in-person usability testing:

• Stop guessing: Learn what does and does not work on your Web site -- and more importantly, why
• Save time and money by concentrating on your best assets -- as determined by users
• Learn how to use online advertising effectively
  
• Videotape of the tests is invaluable and graphically conveys the test results to your entire team