Usability Testing and Other UCD Methods
The UCD process employs a number of methods which are most effectively applied during specific phases in the product lifecycle: during planning, during design, or after release (to assess its success and plan for the next version).
Activities using these methods can take as much as a few weeks or as little as a couple of days. The time frame, scope, and size of your project determine the methods employed and how long they take.
| Method | Description | Best Used |
| Survey or interview | Ask people specific questions | During planning, after release |
| Field study | Watch people work, use a product in context | During planning, after release |
| Focus groups | Lead small groups in discussion of specific issues | During planning |
| Card sorting | Ask people to group (organize) functionality, content | During design |
| Prototyping | Mock up user interface concepts and designs | During design |
| Usability testing (formal or informal) | Watch people use a prototype or product to identify problems | Throughout the product lifecycle |
| Heuristic evaluation | Usability specialist identifies problems and suggests changes | During design, before redesign |
More information on these methods is available on the following site: http://www.usability.gov/methods/.