Out of the Box-Test
Tasks set
In the field of consumer electronics (CE) the usability of products is of increasing importance; it often becomes the distinguishing characteristic in competition:
- The features are crucial in effecting the selection of initial purchases; on a daily basis, however, the easy usability counts most.
- Given their simple usability, customers often favour appliances of the same brand in case of a repurchase; moreover, they tend to recommend practical devices and brands which they find practical.
- The growing complexity of CE-devices requires an utmost usability to assure that users can find and use the most important functions intuitively, without having to thoroughly study the instructions.
The out of the box test investigates problems regarding the usability of CE-devices and provides solutions for possible problems.
Method
As a variant of the user experience test we conduct test sessions that are a combination of observation, interviews, and subjective evaluations with individual respondents:
- During the test sessions the participants are equipped with a packed device (out of the box) and have to work on tasks ranging from the installation to specific problems that reflect the core functionality of the product and of the electronic interface.
- While solving the problems, the participants are being observed by an experienced usability expert.
- At the same time the respondents are urged to "think aloud" to make the motivation behind their actions transparent.
- As a part of a qualitative post-enquiry, the facilitator and the participant join after each task to reflect upon all problems that have occurred.
- Subsequent to the tasks the participants have to evaluate especially developed statements that cover the dimensions usability, utility, design, brand relation, and joy of use.
The test can be expanded to the instructions and devices of your competitors.
Process phase
Sample
Per relevant target group at least 5 participants ought to be tested.
Timing
Depending on the number of relevant target groups, the study can be conducted within 4 to 5 weeks.
Download fact sheet Out of the Box-Test
