ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a systematic approach to testing performance support products both individually and as an integrated performance support system. Usability testing should be performed after deficiencies found during developmental testing are eliminated and the “final” version of product is available. Alpha testing is intended to determine whether a software product functions as expected prior to testing it with users. Usability testing provides direct information about how users interact with the performance support product and the problems they experience. Determining the categories of users that need to be included in the usability test is a very important part of the testing strategy. Video recording generally takes place in usability laboratories, and when several cameras are used, may capture and synchronize data about the screen display, hand movements and other participant behavior during the test session. Capturing tools can record screen displays and input device use during usability test sessions.
