Focus on the usability of a task, not the usability of performing a task the first time Often the tasks that users perform are complex. Consequently, measures taken while they perform the task for the first time may not necessarily reflect the actual usability of daily usage. A suggested solution is to have users perform the task twice. The task is not timed the first time but is timed the second. Consult your legal department Check with your legal department to determine if there are any issues pertinent to the software that you are testing that may affect the design of the competitive test.
Software licenses are difficult to read and understand.
Your legal department can also provide guidance on the type of claims that can be drawn from the test results. Divide the test into phases so that it is easier to postpone or cancel the remainder of the test if there are problems with the test methodology or if the results of the test are not favorable to your product. This prevents you from spending additional money and resources on a competitive test. While this SIG was an excellent start, there are still many issues that need to be addressed within the scope of competitive testing. About the Authors Kristyn Greenwood is a Sr.