Test Plan

Basic components

Adapted from Rubin's list on p. 83 (p. 67 new edition)

1. Purpose
2. Objectives (called Research Questions in new edition)
3. User profile
4. Test design (Method)
5. Task list
6. Test environment and equipment
7. Test monitor role (includes interaction policies)
8. Data to be collected
9. Projected contents of the report

Additional materials

These items should be discussed and referenced in the main plan but should be physically located in the appendix. Depending on the test plan, some of these materials may not be needed.

• Script
• Checklist(s)
• Questionnaire(s)
• Consent form
• Non-disclosure agreement
• Data log sheets
• Detailed task lists
• Training materials

Issues for discussion

• Reasons why the test should be scripted
• Difference between a consent form and a non-disclosure agreement
• Ideas for formatting the report
• Importance of task order (order effects)
• How to give instructions (written vs. oral)
• Obtaining feelings and user sentiment towards the product

In chapter 7 (ch. 8 new edition), Rubin provides detailed examples of test materials. Depending on your test objectives, you probably do not need your questionnaires to be as detailed as his.