Tools Used
- Balsamiq Mockups
- A computer with two monitors
- For remote testing: Skype with Screen Sharing Enabled
Background
The tool being used for Decapod's prototype design is called Balsamiq Mockups and it is a flexible tool that allows you to quickly draw up designs and interactions without worrying about a polished look and feel. While the sketchy look and feel of Balsamiq Mockups may be unusual at first, it helps put the focus on broader designs decisions and interactions.
"Local" Testing
In Decapod user testing, Balsamiq Mockup's window is stretched across two monitors connected to a single computer. The monitors are set up in "extended" desktop mode so that each monitor displays left and right of a larger desktop.
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On the administrator's display (which is not visible to the user), is the rest of the Balsamiq window which contains "off-screen" assets to be used during testing. As the test protocol proceeds, the administrator would drag objects from their display onto the user's screen mimicking functionality and results of user activity.
Remote Testing
Remote testing is done in exactly the same way with dual monitors, and adding internet screen sharing and voice chat (using Skype or Breeze). With screen sharing, only the user's display is shared effectively hiding the Admin's display from user's view.
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