Moderating Usability Tests

than participants’ task performance that could push up ratings. These

factors include the need to please, the need to be positive and not

critical, and the need to appear computer or product literate. Some-

times participants have an easy time with the last task and assume

that they were “getting it.” In other cases, participants may really want

and need the product or feature you are showing them. Even though

it may not be usable, the functionality is very benefi cial to them. As a

result they don’t want to say anything negative because they fear it

may delay the release of the product or feature.

There is no research verifying or clarifying the ...