What methods do you use to evaluate the usability of a product before its launch?

During my final year at university, I worked on a team project to develop a mobile app aimed at helping students manage their study schedules. To evaluate its usability, we organized a series of user testing sessions with fellow students. We created low-fidelity prototypes and asked participants to perform specific tasks, such as adding study sessions or setting reminders. By observing their interactions and collecting feedback through post-session surveys, we identified key usability issues, like confusing navigation and unclear instructions. This feedback allowed us to make necessary adjustments before the app launch, ultimately improving user satisfaction and engagement.

While volunteering for a local charity, I helped organize a community event to promote environmental awareness. To evaluate the usability of our promotional materials, I conducted informal feedback sessions with attendees. I asked questions about the clarity of the information presented on flyers and whether they found the event layout user-friendly. This helped us identify parts of the layout that were cluttered and caused confusion. By implementing changes based on the feedback—such as clearer signage and a simplified schedule—we improved the overall experience for attendees, showcasing the importance of usability in any project.

In my first job as a junior designer, I was part of a team working on an e-commerce website. To evaluate its usability, we conducted A/B testing on different versions of the checkout process. By analyzing user behavior and conversion rates, we noticed that a simplified checkout flow significantly improved sales. Additionally, we used heuristic evaluations to identify usability issues based on established principles. This combined approach not only enhanced the user experience but also contributed to increasing our overall revenue, highlighting how effective usability evaluation can lead to tangible business outcomes.