(Published 9/12/13, link here)
Materials
- Tape a printout of the test device (phone, tablet) to cardboard so it’s more weighty for users and more durable
- Leave a white frame around the device for visual context
- Trim out card stock the exact size of the screen
- Draw/tape UI elements on cards
- Layer multiple cards together on the device printout, using removable double-sided tape
- Try printing out multiple instances of UI elements and cutting them apart to mix n match. Store elements in an organizer container
- Cut sticky address labels in thin strips—you can use them to quickly add UI (like a link or button) on the fly during testing
- Use folds to simulate interactivity—draw/print out an accordion unit w the first drawer open; fold to close and open it
- Use tracing paper for full-screen modal overlays
- Use stickies for small modal popups
Testing
- Give users a quick overview of what you are expecting them to do in a session
- Then hand users the screens, giving them tasks but not telling them how to achieve them
- Make sure your instructions don’t use words on the UI (such as “Enter”) so that you don’t tip off users
- Capture notes, problems, experience bumps and ideas, one per sticky. You can later put them on the wall to organize into themes and prioritize
