Being a user experience design and research shop means that sometimes we do one without the other. Sometimes we're just designing; sometimes we're just researching.

We've heard - and experienced - a lot of discussion about the technology hurdles of remote testing: picking the best testing tool, getting participants to download screensharing tools, dealing with proprietary software that participants don't have access to...Tech issues run the gamut.

But we hear considerably less about the interpersonal challenges of running a remote usability session. It’s not just about finding the right tool or getting your participant to download Webex; it’s about maintaining your participant’s motivation and engagement by showing (gasp!) empathy and compassion during a remote session.

Even on its best day, user testing can present a whole host of obstacles and hurdles. Moderators and observers have to be prepared for anything—from a faulty Internet connection to a participant who doesn’t know how to scroll.

And that’s just when we have as much control as possible over the test—the participants, the lab setting, the protocol structure, and all the other components that go into a successful user test.

Now imagine testing harried doctors and nurses in a frantic, fast-paced hospital. The hurdles skyrocket.

Here are some tips we’ve gathered from our experience testing medical professionals to ensure that you get the most valuable and relevant feedback possible.

A lot of things can go wrong during a usability test. You might forget to bring that Ethernet cable, lose your Internet connection, or even leave behind the testing protocol and be forced to fly blind. Potential problems abound. Preparation is vital.

But…none of that matters if your participant just doesn’t show up at all.

After research into moderated and automated remote testing, Design For Use is ready to move forward with remote synchronous evaluations. We'd love to hear about your experiences and best practices with respect to moderated remote testing.

In preparation for upcoming remote usability tests, Design For Use has researched and evaluated the perks and drawbacks of remote testing versus traditional lab testing.