For a service site, participants can be asked to use certain services offered by the site. The tasks assigned should increase in complexity somewhat as the subjects acclimate to the site layout. Time should be allowed after the exercises are completed for the facilitator to ask questions about the subject's experience with the site. There can be some questions that are asked of each respondent, as well as questions customized based on what was observed. For example, if a participant doesn't make use of the site's search feature while looking for a product specified in the exercise, the facilitator can probe for reasons why.
Usability testing can run up to two hours in length for each subject, from start to finish.
Videotaping of the test is recommended for later viewing. This makes it easy for engineers to go back and review problems identified, and also allows for other team members to see what happened during the test. Typically, the video camera is set up to record the PC screen and the subject's face. This way, movement of the mouse can be observed as well as facial expressions. Summary Web site usability testing has become a key part of marketing programs, enabling developers and marketers to learn about customer's experiences while visiting the Web site.