Glossaries
Formative Testing
What is Formative Testing in User Research?
Formative testing is an iterative evaluation method used in user research to gather feedback on product designs or concepts during the early stages of development. It helps identify usability issues and areas for improvement before the final product is created.
Synonyms: Early-stage usability testing, Iterative user testing, Prototype evaluation, Concept validation testing
Why Formative Testing is Important
Formative testing plays a crucial role in user research and product development. By conducting tests early and often, teams can:
- Identify and fix usability issues before they become costly to address
- Validate design concepts and assumptions
- Improve the overall user experience
- Save time and resources in the long run
How Formative Testing is Conducted
Formative testing typically involves the following steps:
- Create a prototype or early version of the product
- Recruit a small group of representative users
- Ask users to perform specific tasks or provide feedback on the design
- Observe user behavior and collect feedback
- Analyze results and make iterative improvements
Examples of Formative Testing Methods
Several methods can be used for formative testing in user research:
- Paper prototyping: Using sketches or printouts to test early concepts
- Clickable prototypes: Testing interactive digital mockups
- Wizard of Oz testing: Simulating system responses manually
- Cognitive walkthroughs: Experts evaluating the interface from a user's perspective
Frequently Asked Questions
- What's the difference between formative and summative testing?: Formative testing occurs during development to improve the product, while summative testing evaluates the final product against specific criteria.
- How many participants are needed for formative testing?: Typically, 5-8 participants per round are sufficient to identify major usability issues.
- When should formative testing be conducted?: It should be done early and throughout the development process, ideally starting in the conceptual or prototyping phase.
- Can formative testing be done remotely?: Yes, many formative testing methods can be adapted for remote sessions using video conferencing and screen sharing tools.
