We conduct a lot of tests at AnswerLab. We test websites, mobile apps, paper prototypes, wireframes, software, and more. For some stimuli, such as a website, capturing the computer screen for observers to see and record is easy. For that we usually rely on Morae Recorder and some kind of streaming solution such as WebEx or GoToMeeting.
Certain stimuli such as paper prototypes and mobile interfaces require creative capture solutions. We’ve used the Noldus Mobile Device Camera, hired videographers, hacked iPhones to display on a computer screen, and used document scanners such as the WolfVision Desktop Visualizer to capture a session.
There are pros and cons to each solution of course. The Noldus requires just the right lighting, videographers are an added expense and require the participant to remain in a somewhat fixed position, and sometimes hacking an iPhone isn’t suitable for the study.
We’ve had good success with the WolfVision VZ-9plus³, especially for paper prototypes and mobile devices. With a large range, the participant has an easy time keeping the stimuli in view. Auto-focus is handy and the number of video in/out ports allows the session to take on a level of sophistication that is often difficult to plan and execute.
For instance, suppose your participant is interacting with a website on a computer in the lab. That computer is plugged into the WolfVision and the observers in the back room are intently watching what is happening as the user interacts with a website. Now, imagine that the designers also wanted to get some feedback on a few paper prototypes during the last ten minutes of the session. No problem, just lay the paper down on the WolfVision’s viewing area, press a button to send the image to the backroom, and your observers are instantly seeing the participant as she interacts with the paper prototype.
Switching from a digital to paper stimuli and sending the image to the backroom is not usually this easy, as any researcher knows.
As I mentioned, each solution has its advantages and disadvantages. The WolfVision has its place but one must pick the right tool for the job. At AnswerLab, we are fortunate to have a plethora of tools at our disposal and picking just the right one for the job is one of our specialties.
