There are several questions to consider before deciding upon a usability test to use when evaluating a website or application, such as:
- What data is needed?
- Who will use the data and how will it be used?
- How much justification/support is needed?
- How do different methods complement each other?
- What resources are available?
There are also questions that need to be asked when comparing the various methods, such as:
- Who/What is the source of data?
- What is the setting for evaluation?
- What is the nature of the task?
- How obtrusive is the method?
Finally, the researcher must always keep in mind the stages in usability testing, which are:
- Developing the test plan
- Selecting participants
- Preparing test materials
- Conducting the test
- Debriefing the participants
- Transforming the data into findings and recommendations
