Usability Testing with Users – Methods, Benefits, and When to Use Them

By Philip Burgess | UX Research Leader

Usability testing is a key step in creating products that people find easy and enjoyable to use. It involves observing real users as they interact with a product to identify problems and areas for improvement. This process helps teams build better designs, reduce errors, and increase user satisfaction. Understanding the different methods of usability testing, the benefits it brings, and the right moments to apply it can transform how products meet user needs.

User testing a touchscreen device in a controlled environment

Methods of Usability Testing

Usability testing comes in several forms, each suited to different goals and stages of product development. Here are the most common methods:

1. Moderated Usability Testing

In moderated testing, a facilitator guides the user through tasks while observing and asking questions. This can happen in person or remotely via video calls. The moderator can clarify instructions, probe deeper into user thoughts, and adapt the session based on user behavior.

Example: A software company invites users to their lab to complete specific tasks on a new app while a researcher watches and takes notes.

2. Unmoderated Usability Testing

Users complete tasks on their own, often using a testing platform that records their screen and actions. This method allows for testing with many users quickly and at a lower cost. However, it lacks the immediate feedback and interaction of moderated sessions.

Example: An e-commerce site sends a link to customers to test a new checkout process at home and collects data on where users struggle.

3. Remote Usability Testing

Remote testing can be moderated or unmoderated and takes place with users in their natural environment. This method captures more realistic user behavior and can reach a wider audience.

Example: A mobile app developer asks users worldwide to test a new feature from their phones and share their experience via video recordings.

4. A/B Testing

While not a traditional usability test, A/B testing compares two versions of a design by measuring user interactions and preferences. It helps decide which design performs better in real-world conditions.

Example: A website shows two different homepage layouts to visitors and tracks which one leads to more sign-ups.

Benefits of Usability Testing

Usability testing offers clear advantages that improve product quality and user experience:

• Identifies real user problems

Testing reveals issues that designers and developers might overlook, such as confusing navigation or unclear instructions.

• Saves time and money

Fixing usability problems early prevents costly redesigns after launch.

• Increases user satisfaction

Products that are easy to use encourage repeat visits and positive reviews.

• Improves accessibility

Testing with diverse users helps ensure the product works well for people with different abilities.

• Supports data-driven decisions

Observing actual user behavior provides evidence to guide design choices instead of relying on assumptions.

When to Use Usability Testing

Knowing when to conduct usability testing maximizes its impact:

• Early in design

Testing wireframes or prototypes helps catch major issues before development begins.

• Before launch

Testing the final product ensures it meets user needs and functions as intended.

• After updates

Testing new features or changes confirms they improve the experience without introducing new problems.

• When user complaints arise

If users report difficulties, testing can pinpoint the cause and guide fixes.

• To compare options

Testing different designs or workflows helps choose the best solution.

Practical Tips for Effective Usability Testing

• Define clear goals

Know what you want to learn from the test to design relevant tasks.

• Recruit representative users

Select participants who match your target audience for meaningful feedback.

• Keep tasks realistic and focused

Avoid overwhelming users with too many or artificial tasks.

• Observe without interfering

Let users work naturally but be ready to ask clarifying questions if needed.

• Analyze results carefully

Look for patterns in user behavior and feedback to identify key issues.

Usability testing software displaying user interaction heatmaps and session recordings