Usability Labs

The Design and Usability Center (DUC) has two state-of-the-art usability labs on campus. The first is a large, three-room testing suite designed to accommodate focus groups, as well as individual and multi-user evaluation sessions. The second, smaller lab is a two-room testing suite designed to accommodate one-on-one sessions. Both labs have one-way mirrors through which clients can observe test sessions. Each also has multiple video cameras that allow participants’ actions and remarks to be recorded.

Three Room Suite

Designed by leading usability professionals, the three-room suite has been used as a model by other usability labs nationwide, including the National Cancer Institute.

The three-room testing suite consists of a spacious test room, a control room, and an adjacent observation room with capacity for 24 observers). The test room is designed to accommodate both individual evaluation sessions as well as focus groups, with three workstations where participants can evaluate products or websites. Large hardware products and software products can be evaluated with equal ease. Additionally, a sitting area with chairs and a sofa provides a comfortable space where the participant and facilitator can discuss the upcoming session.

Two Room Suite

The two-room testing suite consists of a test room and a control/observation room. The test room has one workstation and is designed to accommodate one-on-one sessions. The control room can accommodate up to six observers.

Both labs provide an environment in which participants can be observed through a one-way mirror. Each of our stationary labs offer a wide range of viewing angles and auxiliary macro cameras for ultimate flexibility in product testing, for both software and physical devices.

The labs are also equipped for remote viewing through live streaming of test sessions and focus groups via the web. This allows clients to observe studies remotely if they are unable to travel to the DUC offices. Likewise, remote usability testing can be conducted through the use of web conferencing tools. This enables the center to moderate sessions with participants in any part of the world.

Additionally, post-production video editing can be provided for clients who want video highlights to support test findings. These highlights can be delivered as individual clips or as a fully produced highlight tape with voice-overs, transitions, and titles.