Remote Usability Testing

Complex tasks

The complexity of a task needs to be borne in mind. Changing the quantity of an item on a product details page, for instance, is a simple task; it only requires one click, and usually follows design best practices (a drop-down element). A complex task is a task that requires a lot of the user's concentration. It may involve selecting or entering a lot of information, be longer and cover multiple steps, or involve a complicated subject matter. As a result, participants may spend less time talking out loud about their impressions and feelings because they are occupied with the task itself. In such cases, it may be helpful to reiterate to the study participant that proper thinking aloud is crucial.