usability-testing

SKILL.md

Conduct effective usability testing using frameworks from 11 product leaders.

Choose the right test fidelity: fake doors and Wizard of Oz tests for concept validation, prototypes for design feedback, production testing for optimization

Small sample sizes (10 random users) reveal core friction points; direct observation of user behavior uncovers needs that surveys miss

Test multiple design options simultaneously to measure relative performance, not single designs in isolation

Bring cross-functional teams (PMs, engineers, designers) into live sessions to build shared understanding and overcome creator bias

Progress through testing stages from internal fish fooding to early adopter programs to alphas, increasing confidence iteratively before full launch

Usability Testing

Help the user conduct effective usability testing using frameworks and insights from 11 product leaders.

How to Help

When the user asks for help with usability testing:

Clarify the goal - Determine if they're validating a concept, finding friction points, or optimizing conversion

Choose the right fidelity - Help them select between Wizard of Oz tests, fake doors, prototypes, or production testing

Design the test - Guide them on recruiting users, creating scenarios, and what to observe

Plan for iteration - Discuss how findings will flow back into the product development process

Core Principles

Fake it before you build it

Itamar Gilad: "Initially you fake it - fake door test, smoke test, Wizard of Oz tests. We showed the tabbed inbox working to people, but it wasn't really Gmail, it was just a facade." Validate core value propositions before writing production code using faked versions where humans perform the automated task behind the scenes.