Find the right research method for your project

Accessibility evaluation ensures that digital products are usable by people of all abilities while also meeting compliance standards. This method helps uncover barriers that affect real users and improve overall usability for everyone. A combination of automated tools, expert reviews, and real-world testing with assistive technology users provides a comprehensive assessment. The process often starts with automated scans to catch common issues, but manual testing is essential for evaluating more nuanced aspects like screen reader compatibility, keyboard navigation, and cognitive load. Real user feedback is invaluable, as no amount of automation can fully replicate the lived experience of someone relying on assistive technology. Although accessibility testing can seem technical and intimidating, it is important to take steps, even small changes, to improve usability for all users.

Wizard of Oz testing is a research method used to evaluate user interactions with a system that appears fully functional but is actually controlled by a human behind the scenes. This approach allows researchers to test user expectations, behaviors, and usability issues before investing in full development. It is particularly useful for early-stage concept validation, conversational UI testing, and assessing how users respond to AI-driven experiences. Key considerations include scripting realistic system responses, maintaining consistency across test sessions, and gathering qualitative feedback on user reactions and mental models.

Assess how users interact with voice-based interfaces, including voice assistants, IVR systems, and spoken commands. This testing evaluates usability, response accuracy, and overall effectiveness in facilitating tasks. It can help identify friction points in speech recognition, natural language processing, and persona alignment. Key considerations include voice clarity, error handling, adaptability to different accents and speech patterns, and the system’s ability to provide relevant, timely responses. This method is particularly useful for refining conversational design, improving accessibility, and ensuring agent/assistant personas align with user expectations.