Expert Walkthrough

Definition

An expert walkthrough is a usability evaluation technique where an experienced user or designer reviews a product to identify usability issues and provide insights based on their expertise. This method helps to assess the effectiveness of a product by leveraging the expert's knowledge and experience to anticipate user behaviors and expectations, ensuring that the design meets usability standards.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Expert walkthroughs are particularly effective for identifying high-level usability issues that may not be obvious through standard user testing.
2. During an expert walkthrough, the evaluator will usually follow specific tasks while thinking aloud to share their thought process with others.
3. This technique can be conducted early in the design process to catch potential problems before user testing begins.
4. Expert walkthroughs often involve collaboration between multiple experts to provide diverse perspectives on usability.
5. The feedback from expert walkthroughs can be used to make immediate design improvements or inform later stages of usability testing.

Review Questions

• How does an expert walkthrough differ from traditional usability testing in terms of approach and objectives?
  • An expert walkthrough differs from traditional usability testing primarily in its approach and objectives. While usability testing involves real users interacting with a product to uncover practical issues, an expert walkthrough relies on the insights of experienced individuals who assess the interface based on their knowledge and expertise. The goal of an expert walkthrough is to identify potential usability problems early in the design process, whereas usability testing focuses more on observing actual user behavior to gather data for improvement.
• Discuss the advantages of conducting an expert walkthrough before performing standard usability tests.
  • Conducting an expert walkthrough before standard usability tests offers several advantages. It allows designers to leverage the expertise of seasoned evaluators who can spot issues that new users might overlook. This method can save time by identifying significant usability concerns early on, allowing for quick adjustments before further testing. Additionally, it helps establish a baseline understanding of user interactions, making subsequent tests more focused and effective as they can address previously identified weaknesses.
• Evaluate how the insights gained from an expert walkthrough can influence the overall design strategy and user experience of a product.
  • Insights gained from an expert walkthrough can significantly influence overall design strategy and user experience by providing actionable feedback that aligns with best practices in usability. By pinpointing specific areas where users may struggle or become confused, designers can prioritize modifications that enhance clarity and intuitiveness in the interface. This evaluation can lead to more informed decisions regarding layout, navigation, and functionality, ultimately resulting in a more user-friendly product that better meets the needs and expectations of its target audience.

Related terms

Usability Testing: A method used to evaluate a product by testing it with real users, observing their interactions to identify areas for improvement.

Cognitive Walkthrough: A structured evaluation method that focuses on how easy it is for new users to complete tasks in a system, emphasizing user goals and cognitive processes.

Heuristic Evaluation: An expert-based review of a user interface against recognized usability principles, identifying potential issues without extensive user testing.