You: An Essential Resource!
Feedback from users is an essential element in the design and development of Catalyst Web Tools and the physical Technology Spaces. As all decisions are based on user needs rather than the features and constraints of a particular technology or space, users must be continuously involved in the iterative development process. Whether designing from scratch or making revisions to something preexisting, users inform our actions at three important points: needs assessment, usability testing, and post-release feedback.
I. Needs Assessment
The first step in the development process is to understand what goals users have for teaching, learning, research, communication, collaboration, or other work, and what they currently do to meet these goals. This data is gathered using a combination of interviews, observations, focus groups, and surveys. In data analysis, the particular tasks people undertake to accomplish their goals, the sequence of these tasks, and any obstacles people encounter in completing the tasks are clarified and opportunities to improve the efficiency of their workflow are identified. At the end of the needs assessment phase, a thorough understanding of users and their needs will be documented, helping to determine the functional requirements for a new design.
II. Usability Testing
The design process leads to the development of a prototype of the new design. When a prototype is ready to test, users are invited to participate in usability studies. In these studies, users are asked to carry out a number of tasks using the prototype. The tasks are drawn from the discoveries made in the needs assessment phase and reflect what typical users would do to accomplish their goals. Usability studies test how well our prototype meets users’ needs and expectations. For example, in testing the Catalyst Web Tools, the organization of functions and screens, the terms used for labels and buttons, and the visual presentation of information on each screen are all examined. Based on users’ performance and feedback, the design is refined before it is released for general use by the campus community.
III. Post-release Feedback
After a fully working version of a design has been developed and released, user feedback continues to be gathered through a variety of forums (such as face-to-face support, email, workshops, observations, and advisory groups). This data is then compiled and analyzed to inform the next phase of redesign. For some new Catalyst Web Tools, or for complex upgrades to existing tools, a beta version may be released. Feedback from users who try out the beta version is then used to make revisions to the tool before its final release.
Users are essential to our development process. Having CUE teams comprised of users who have a variety of goals and expertise ensures that a representative cross-section of the campus community is heard. Your participation in CUE allows us to effectively and efficiently recruit users for each phase of design and development.
