HP Labs Technical Reports

User Interface Evaluation in the Real World: A Comparison of Four Techniques

Jeffries, Robin; Miller, James R.; Wharton, Cathleen; Uyeda, Kathy M.

HPL-91-03

Keyword(s):

Abstract: A User interface (UI) for a software product was evaluated prior to its release by four groups, each applying a different technique: heuristic evaluation, software guidelines, cognitive walkthroughs, and usability testing. Heuristic evaluation by several UI specialists found the most serious problems with the least amount of effort, although they also reported a large number of low-priority problems. The relative advantages of all the techniques are discussed, and suggestions for improvements in the techniques are offered.

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