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Thinking aloud
The method of thinking aloud is popular for analysanalysing the user friendliness of software. One of its special features is that, instead of being analysed retrospectively, it is analysanalysed "online", i.e. directly while the user is working with the software.
Procedure
- Prototypical users are instructed to use the product, for example, learning software, to complete one (or several) specified tasks while expressing their thoughts and impressions.
- The comments are tape-recorded; the actions in the system are recorded on log files analyses.
- After completing the tasks an interview can be conducted (see Page on Usability interview).
- In the analysis, the most important phases of the session are transcribed (i.e. what is said on the tape is written down). The protocols can then be summarised and analysed. Information from various sources (i.e. log-files, interviews, notes from test supervisors, user statements ) are analysed in relation to one other.
- In the final report the user statements are analysed and consequences and recommendations for improving the product are developed. The most important results can be underlined by example quotes from the test persons (cf. Frommann, 2005, p.7).
Conclusion
The method of thinking aloud generates behavioural data, but its evaluation is quite time-consuming. It allows conclusions to be drawn about the impression software makes on potential users, and how they approach it. User priorities and system weaknesses become clear. If, say, the user expresses surprise about the sequence of certain steps, it may lead to a reassessment of the program's inner logic. In a follow-up study, assumptions can be confirmed and misunderstandings eliminated.
The "Society for Technical Communication" provides various instruments for usability testing on its website. You can find instructions on the method of thinking aloud at the following page: http://www.stcsig.org/usability/resources/toolkit/toolkit.html (under 'Conducting Usability Tests': t_a_prot.doc)
You can find further information about the method of thinking aloud in the introductory chapter of this handbook (see Page Thinking aloud).
