Usability Testing & Focus Groups

Validating Design and Project Objectives

There are many was to incorporate usability testing into a project depending on time line, budget and priority. At Franklin Templeton, the User Experience team conducted a variety of testing methods; moderated, face-to-face testing of production environments, wireframe and visual design prototypes, hallway tests, remote sessions; etc. No matter which style of testing was done, the key was always to test early and test often.

In addition to usability testing, the team has found focus groups also serve as a key discovery resource. This process helps to validate design directions and project objectives before more defined artifacts, such as prototypes or staging, are available.

Overall User Experience Process

  • Identify usability testing time frames within overall project schedule
  • Evaluate and recommend usability testing tools
  • Create test plan and task scenarios
  • Develop focus group facilitation scripts and question prompts
  • Recruit participants and plan sessions
  • Fulfill session roles; facilitator, note taker, observer
  • Evaluate session data
  • Craft findings presentation

Sample Documents