Glossaries
Guerrilla 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 minimal planning and allows for rapid insights collection.
Synonyms: Quick and dirty testing, Informal usability testing, Rapid user feedback, On-the-fly user research
Why Guerrilla Testing is Important
Guerrilla testing is crucial for user researchers and designers who need quick, real-world feedback. It allows teams to validate ideas rapidly, identify usability issues early, and make informed decisions without the need for extensive resources or formal lab settings.
How Guerrilla Testing is Conducted
To perform guerrilla testing:
- Choose a public location with your target audience
- Approach potential participants
- Ask them to complete a short task or provide feedback
- Observe and record their interactions and comments
- Analyze the results and apply insights to your design
This method is particularly useful for early-stage concepts, prototypes, or when time and budget constraints exist.
Examples of Guerrilla Testing in Action
- Testing a new mobile app interface in a coffee shop
- Gathering feedback on a website redesign at a university campus
- Evaluating the usability of a kiosk design at a shopping mall
- Collecting opinions on marketing materials at a train station
Frequently Asked Questions
- What's the difference between guerrilla testing and traditional usability testing?: Guerrilla testing is faster, less formal, and typically conducted in public spaces, while traditional usability testing is more structured and often takes place in controlled environments.
- How many participants are needed for guerrilla testing?: While there's no fixed number, 5-10 participants can often provide valuable insights. The goal is to quickly identify major usability issues rather than achieve statistical significance.
- Is guerrilla testing suitable for all types of products?: It's most effective for simple, consumer-facing products or features. Complex systems or products requiring specific expertise may not be suitable for this method.
- How long should a guerrilla testing session last?: Typically, sessions are kept short, around 5-15 minutes, to respect participants' time and maintain their engagement.