Glossaries
NASA TLX
What is NASA TLX (Task Load Index)?
NASA TLX (Task Load Index) is a widely used assessment tool in user research that measures the perceived workload of a task. It evaluates six dimensions: mental demand, physical demand, temporal demand, performance, effort, and frustration level.
Synonyms: Task Load Index, Workload Assessment Tool, Cognitive Load Measurement, NASA Task Load Index
How NASA TLX is Used in User Research
NASA TLX is commonly employed in user research to assess the cognitive load and stress levels experienced by users when interacting with products or systems. Researchers use this tool to:
- Evaluate task difficulty
- Compare different interface designs
- Identify areas for improvement in user experience
- Measure the effectiveness of design changes
Why NASA TLX is Important for UX Design
Understanding the workload associated with using a product is crucial for creating user-friendly designs. NASA TLX helps UX designers:
- Pinpoint specific areas of high cognitive load
- Optimize task flows and reduce user frustration
- Improve overall user satisfaction and efficiency
- Make data-driven decisions in the design process
Examples of NASA TLX Application
NASA TLX can be applied in various user research scenarios:
- Testing a new mobile app interface
- Evaluating the usability of medical devices
- Assessing pilot workload in flight simulators
- Comparing different versions of a website checkout process
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the six dimensions of NASA TLX?: The six dimensions are mental demand, physical demand, temporal demand, performance, effort, and frustration level.
- How is NASA TLX scored?: Users rate each dimension on a scale, typically from 0 to 100. These ratings are then combined to create an overall workload score.
- Can NASA TLX be used for remote user testing?: Yes, NASA TLX can be adapted for remote testing using online survey tools or specialized user research software.
- Is NASA TLX only for complex systems?: While originally developed for aviation, NASA TLX is versatile and can be used for a wide range of tasks and products in various industries.