[Sigia-l] Validation

[Donna Maurer]

What you do depends on what you want to achieve. If you want to know:

* if they 'like' it, show them and ask if they like it
* if it has key functions that they use often, ask them to write down what they currently 
use and what they would like, and see if you have included it
* if it is usable, you will have to let them use it. There is no other way to determine 
usability ;)

I don't think it is possible to properly achieve what you have asked with this type of 
input and in this timeframe. All you'll get is some vague ideas.

OK, I should be more constructive. If I *absolutely* had to do this, I'd

* ask people to write down a couple of things that they either already use or plan to 
use the intranet for (before they see anything)
* send them/or show them the designs, and ask them to write down/tell you how they 
would attempt these with the new design, whether they can attempt them and what 
other feedback they have

You could also send/give them a small set of scenarios to use.

Obtaining feedback based on real scenarios is more useful than unstructured 
feedback. You have a better chance of getting good information if people are focusing 
on how they will use it.

Please, please also push for more user involvement. If it is like most intranets, you are 
designing something that people should be using frequently. To do this without their 
involvement is a waste of time - I've designed enough intranets to know that every one 
is as unique as the organisation it is for.


Donna Maurer


On 30 Jan 2004 at 12:54, lisa.najarian at prudential.com wrote:

> We have a project where we have redesigned an intranet overview page.
> We were not able to get user input from the beginning (I know that is
> awful), however we have several designs and received approval to put
> them in front of some users. What is the best way to go about
> validating these designs (prototypes) with the following in mind: a)
> Some users will be in a remote location b) We want validate not only
> usability, but also that we have provided the
> information/functionalities that are important to the user. c) We wont
> be allowed very much of the users time, most likely 1 hour
> 
> I appreciate in advance any suggestions you could share with me.
> 
> Thank you,
> Lisa.
> 
> 
> ------------
> When replying, please *trim your post* as much as possible.
> *Plain text, please; NO Attachments
> 
> Searchable list archive:   http://www.info-arch.org/lists/sigia-l/
> ________________________________________ Sigia-l mailing list -- post
> to: Sigia-l at asis.org Changes to subscription:
> http://mail.asis.org/mailman/listinfo/sigia-l
>