[Sigia-l] User testing texts

[Andrew]

Sigrun Lurås wrote:
> Hi,
>
> Does anybody have any experience with user testing the text of a web site? We have an information structure that is well tested. But there's no use for the user to find the information, if the information is not user friendly and easy to understand. We have some ideas of how to do such a test, but haven't found any methodology for testing texts specifically. Any suggestions of how to perform these kind of user tests?
>
> Thanks!
>
> Sigrun Luras
>
>   
Hi Sigrun,

the text contains information. You can test the uptake/"absorbtion" of 
this information either quantitatively or qualitatively - construct test 
regimes that prove/disprove the presence of the information within the 
user. Do it scientifically, with blind/guaranteed negative results, and 
test across a variety of your potential user types (define these first). 
It is like testing for the presence/absence of any other thing. You can 
do GOMS-like baselines to determine how long it might take the mythical 
average user to find and absorb the information then test against it.

There are "document as usability subject" studies around that predate 
the rise of electronically distributed information. Many sources in 
library and information science, perhaps one of the listerati who are 
wired that way might refer you to the best sources.

Cheers, Andrew