Glossaries
Guerilla Testing
What is Guerrilla Testing in User Research?
Guerrilla testing is a quick, low-cost method of user research where researchers approach people in public spaces to gather feedback on a product or design. It involves brief, informal sessions with participants who haven't been recruited in advance.
Synonyms: Quick and dirty testing, Hallway testing, Cafe testing, Intercept testing, Ad-hoc usability testing
Why Guerrilla Testing is Important
Guerrilla testing is crucial in user research because it allows teams to gather quick insights with minimal resources. This method is particularly valuable for startups, small teams, or projects with tight budgets. By conducting impromptu tests in public spaces, researchers can rapidly validate ideas, identify usability issues, and gain diverse perspectives on their designs.
How Guerrilla Testing is Conducted
To perform guerrilla testing:
- Choose a public location with your target audience
- Prepare a short script and specific tasks for participants
- Approach people and ask for a few minutes of their time
- Show them your prototype or product and observe their interactions
- Ask follow-up questions to gather more detailed feedback
- Thank participants and quickly analyze the results
This method typically takes 10-15 minutes per participant and can provide valuable insights in a short amount of time.
Benefits of Guerrilla Testing
- Cost-effective: Requires minimal resources and no participant recruitment fees
- Time-efficient: Can be conducted quickly, often in a single day
- Diverse feedback: Allows access to a wide range of potential users
- Real-world context: Provides insights in natural environments where products might be used
- Iterative design: Supports rapid prototyping and frequent testing throughout the design process
Frequently Asked Questions
- What's the difference between guerrilla testing and traditional usability testing?: Guerrilla testing is more informal, quicker, and conducted with random participants in public spaces, while traditional usability testing involves recruited participants in controlled environments.
- How many participants are needed for guerrilla testing?: Typically, 5-10 participants can provide valuable insights, but the number can vary based on your project needs and time constraints.
- Is guerrilla testing suitable for all types of products?: While it's great for many digital products and simple prototypes, complex systems or products requiring specific expertise might not be ideal for guerrilla testing.
- How can I ensure the quality of feedback in guerrilla testing?: Prepare clear, focused tasks and questions, and be ready to probe deeper when participants provide interesting responses. Also, try to test with a diverse range of people to get varied perspectives.