It's the difference between guessing and being sure. They also do a great job of presenting the results. It's not just a matter of gathering feedback. There's special value in the presentation and organization of that feedback in terms of specific improvements we can make and then measure. Clear Ink offers the service to all clients as part of its site-building process, and also a la carte to those interested specifically in increasing their Web site usability.
Tests can take place in person at the lab or through remote testing.
Clear Ink's User Experience Lab differs from traditional labs in three ways. First, Clear Ink's lab was furnished by long-time Clear Ink partner Restoration Hardware, providing the tester an environment like a home office. Replicating users' natural environment allows Clear Ink to get a more accurate picture of how people use Web sites in the real world. Second, Clear Ink allows users to help determine the Web site functions they test, rather than handing them a predetermined set of tasks - reflecting a more realistic approach. Finally, Clear Ink produces a highlight reel showing segments of the actual tests in a screen split between a picture of the user and the computer screen, allowing clients to see firsthand the users' reactions.