CONDUCTING A TEST #10

Preparing for the test

The test team needs to decide:

• what type of environment will be used for testing;
• where will the test take place;
• whether a video recorder and/or tape recorder will be used and how many;
• what angles to use for the video recorder(s);
• arrangement of people and equipment in the room(s);
• who will be in the test room;
• what are the roles of each team member;
• paper work (consent forms, procedures, debriefing questionnaire, personal questionnaire, etc.), and;
• equipment for scenarios (help desk, prototype, procedures, desk, wall/divider, chairs, tapes, pens, etc.)

A test plan will help plan these items.  No matter how sketchy or elaborate, it can also help reduce the chance of overlooking items.