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UX Walkthrough Protocols and Checklists

UX Walkthrough Protocols and Checklists

Jan 11, 2010

The Fluid Approach

The Fluid approach to UX Walkthroughs involves performing a Heuristic Evaluation and Cognitive Walkthrough, often at the same time. By using a combined approach, an evaluator can gain insight beyond that found by performing a single method in isolation. A UX Walkthrough can also involve an under-the-covers accessibility Accessibility Markup Review of the HTML.

Our aim for Fluid is Software that works - for everyone. This means that we assess accessibility as well as usability. Additionally, rather than having two separate inspections for usability and accessibility, we use a unified approach that addresses both areas.

Either of the primary methods - heuristic evaluation and cognitive walkthrough - may be used to address usability, accessibility, or both. The only difference is the set of principles applied or questions asked during inspection. Checklists for both usability and accessibility are offered here for each method.

When evaluating an application or website using a Fluid UX Walkthrough, you will be able to determine both:

  • How well the application fulfills the basic requirements for usability and/or accessibility.

  • How the interface accommodates a particular user - based on a persona or detailed knowledge about a particular user type.

Before you Begin:

Fluid UX Walkthrough Protocols & Checklists

Wrapping Up

References

  • More detail on each of the heuristic principles can be found in be found in an expanded list from Deniese Pierotti of Xerox, which itemizes specific things to look for when evaluating a system with Nielsen's Heuristics. See Heuristic Evaluation - A System Checklist.