blocks.jpg (121944 bytes)

Information Designer's Sample:
Usability Scenario

models | processes
techniques | links
resources on i.d. business and management
home

Following is a sample of a usability scenario and a form for collecting data from an observation of users performing this scenario.

You can adapt this form to meet your needs.

Example of a Simple Usability Scenario

You recently completed writing a passage, which you saved in the file ROUGH.DOC. You are almost ready to submit the passage for publication, but first want to make sure that the spelling and grammar are correct. Using the tools provided by the software and the information with the instructions, check the spelling and grammar of the passage saved in ROUGH.DOC. Take as much time as needed.

Example of an Observation Form for a Simple Usability Test

 

User ____________________________________________________________

Date ____________________________________________________________

Time Started: ___________________ Time Completed: _________________

Errors (total number of): ____________________________________________

Main task: Proofreading the document

Supporting tasks:

Supporting Task Actions Comments
Checking spelling
  1. Use help to find out what to do (choose one)?
    • Yes
    • No
  2. Which option does user take (check one)?
    • Press F7
    • Choose Spelling from the Tools menu
  3. Choose ignore when spelling checker indicates that the name Helena Jerney is misspelled
    • Yes
    • No
  
Check grammar
  1. Use help to find out what to do?
    • Yes
    • No
  2. Which option does user take (check one)?
    • Press F8
    • Choose Grammar from the Tools menu
  3. Rewrite sentence when grammar checker indicates that the first sentence is passive?
    • Yes
    • No
  

Article on demonstrating the value of technical communication products and services

models | processes | techniques | resources on i.d. business and management | home

(c) Copyright. 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002. Saul Carliner. All rights reserved.