HOW-TO: Set Up a Portable usability lab
As we look to start conducting usability tests, we need to make sure our toolkit is in place and ready. The ability to deal with video and audio recordings is getting simpler as well as the ability to combine them.
This is a small inventory of what is required for a portable usability lab:
- Web cam or video camera
- Screencapture software
- Recording device with separate microphone
- Laptop
- Software to be tested
- A clear idea (scripted and rehearsed) of what questions to ask
The two things to bring back to development so they can understand the pain the customer is having:
- A video of the individual using the application. If an insert of the customer’s face can be superimposed on the application screen, this is generally best. (Include timer).
- A recording of the customer trying to talk about what they are trying to accomplish.
It is important to remind the customer that we are not trying to test their computer skills, but instead trying to get feedback on how the application can be improved and to help the customer become more efficient.
Pertinent links:
Microphones:
Webcams:
Laptops:
There are laptops out there with integrated webcams. This concept was first implemented by Apple in their iBooks, and then repeated again in their MacBook and MacBook Pro line. While the MacBooks can’t be used for our testing, other companies are starting to venture into that space. Here is a review at CNET for some of the current offerings. While having the camera integrated, it certainly isn’t required. A low profile camera as listed above can be unobtrusive and provide better quality video at the same time.
Software
- Open source solution: CamStudio v2
- TechSmith Morae
- Hyperionics HyperCam
- Microsoft Virtual PC
- VMWare Player
- VMWare Workstation
Reviews:
I would go with Morae. I use it, a laptop, and a logitech quickcam and have no complaints.