Search and filter usability test template

Observe how people narrow a set of results to find [suitable item].

Use this template

Editable study draft · English content

Before you launch

Provide the site URL and replace the item constraints. Verify that matching and non-matching items exist in the test catalog.

Opens a usability study with ordered tasks, post-task questions, and a final debrief. Add your target URL to each task. Screen sharing is enabled and the moderator observes without providing task hints. Success criteria below are a guide for your review, not automatic grading rules.

Participant tasks

  1. Task 1

    Find candidates

    Find [item category] that could meet [need].

    Researcher success criteria

    Participant produces a relevant set of candidate results.

  2. Task 2

    Narrow results

    You need an option within [budget] that also has [attribute]. Find the options that qualify.

    Researcher success criteria

    Participant identifies results satisfying both constraints.

  3. Task 3

    Change a constraint

    Your [constraint] has changed to [new requirement]. Update your search and choose a result.

    Researcher success criteria

    Participant revises the relevant constraint and identifies a qualifying result.

After each task, ask what was difficult and what the participant expected to happen. The study also includes a task-ease rating.

Final debrief

  1. What, if anything, was different from what you expected?
  2. Which part of the experience would you change first, and why?

Plan your study

Who should take part?

People who search for [item category].

What should I customize before launching?

Provide the site URL and replace the item constraints. Verify that matching and non-matching items exist in the test catalog.

How should I use the findings?

Compare search wording, filter expectations, and result interpretation. Note whether people can tell why results changed.

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