© 2012 Above the Fold

USER RESEARCH 13
Use paper prototypes
Design debates arise with any team; luckily most can be resolved with a paper
prototype. Paper prototypes involve the same components as other
prototypes: screens, users, interactions… everything but the computer!
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Tip
Sketch the screens for the interaction you want to test, including buttons,
modal windows, and other interactive pieces.
Ask an objective person to act as the “user.”
As the user “clicks” on the “screen,” act as the computer, simulating
actions and interactivity. Your team members can observe successes and
struggles, as in a traditional usability test.
This paper usability test offers
immediate feedback in several ways:
• The team will receive clear,
real-time feedback, solving
design debates.
• You’ll discover insights that no
one thought of previously.
• Your objective user will provide
you with a new perspective.
If possible, find a user who fits your target audience. At the very least, use
someone who hasn’t seen or heard about the in-progress application.