The Complete Guide to Usability Testing: Steps to Build User-Friendly Products

December 25, 2024

Ever launched a product, only to realize users can't figure it out? When it comes to creating something users love, one thing matters above all else: ease of use. Usability testing is the key to unlocking this potential—a user-centered approach that goes beyond analytics, revealing not just what users do, but why they struggle or succeed.

By observing real users interact with your product, usability testing identifies pain points, confusion, and opportunities for improvement. It transforms great ideas into seamless experiences by ensuring your product is intuitive, accessible, and truly user-friendly.

Addressing usability issues early saves time and money while dramatically improving user satisfaction and retention. Whether you're a startup founder, product manager, designer, or developer, usability testing empowers your team to make informed, user-driven decisions that can make or break your product's success.

This guide will walk you through every step of usability testing, from understanding its core principles to implementing actionable strategies. By the end, you'll know how to run effective tests, interpret results, and craft products that users can't get enough of.

What is Usability Testing?

Let’s talk about something every product manager wonders: At its core, usability testing answers a critical question: Can people actually use your product the way you intended?

This hands-on, user-focused method involves asking real users to complete specific tasks while you observe their interactions. Whether it's a website, mobile app, or physical product, usability testing reveals how users truly experience your design.

Here's how it works: Participants attempt real-world tasks like making a purchase or finding key information. As they navigate, you watch, listen, and learn. The goal isn't just to identify what works, but to uncover the subtle friction points that frustrate users and block them from achieving their goals.

Unlike raw analytics that only show what users do, usability testing explains why they do it. It goes beyond surface-level data, providing deep insights into user behavior, motivations, and challenges.

The ultimate aim? Ensuring your product isn't just functional, but truly intuitive. By understanding how users interact with your design, you can create experiences that feel effortless, build trust, and keep users coming back.

Why invest in Usability Testing?

Usability testing is more than a research method—it's a strategic approach to building products users love. Here are the key benefits:

Early problem detection: Catching design flaws early saves significant time and resources. Imagine discovering navigation issues during prototyping instead of after launch. A simple usability test can reveal that users can't find critical features, allowing you to make adjustments before expensive redesigns become necessary.
Enhanced user satisfaction: An intuitive product isn't just functional—it's enjoyable. When users can navigate seamlessly, they're more likely to engage deeply, complete tasks, and recommend your product. E-commerce sites with smooth checkout processes, for instance, see higher conversion rates and customer loyalty.
Data-driven design: Decisions Usability testing replaces assumptions with concrete insights. Instead of guessing what users want, you'll have direct evidence of their behavior. This means every design choice is backed by real user feedback, reducing risk and increasing the likelihood of success.
Competitive differentiation: In a crowded market, user experience is a key differentiator. By continuously refining your product through usability testing, you create experiences that stand out. Users don't just compare features—they compare how easy and pleasant those features are to use.
Risk mitigation: Launching a product is always a high-stakes moment. Usability testing acts as a safety net, helping you identify and resolve potential issues before they impact your reputation. It's a proactive approach to ensuring your product meets user expectations.

This approach transforms usability testing from an optional extra to a critical component of successful product development.

Goals of Usability Testing

It’s really important for a product manager to have clear and defined goals before kicking off usability testing. Usability testing is about more than just checking whether a product works; it’s about understanding the user’s experience and uncovering how to make it better. Here’s what usability testing aims to achieve:

Ensure functionality: Can users complete key tasks as intended? For example, can they successfully sign up for an account, make a purchase, or find the information they need?
Identify pain points: Where do users get stuck, frustrated, or confused? Usability testing sheds light on obstacles that analytics alone can’t explain.
Validate design decisions: Does the design align with user expectations? Observing users in real-time helps teams ensure their choices make sense to the people using the product.
Optimize efficiency: How quickly and easily can users achieve their goals? Testing identifies opportunities to streamline workflows and reduce friction.
Measure user satisfaction: Beyond functionality, how do users feel about the experience? Usability testing uncovers insights into how enjoyable or frustrating your product is.

What Usability Testing doesn’t do?

While usability testing is incredibly powerful for understanding how users interact with your product, it’s important to recognize its limits. It’s not a one-size-fits-all research method. Here are a few areas where other approaches might be more suitable:

Understanding deep emotional responses: Usability testing focuses on actions, not the underlying emotions driving them. For a deeper dive into users’ thoughts and feelings, consider generative research methods like interviews or diary studies.
Identifying usage trends and patterns: If you need large-scale, quantitative data on how users behave over time, product analytics tools are a better fit.
Choosing between design variations: While usability testing uncovers issues in a single design, A/B testing or comparative usability testing is better for evaluating which version performs best.
Evaluating desirability or market value: Usability testing isn’t designed to assess whether your product is desirable or in demand. For that, market research methods like focus groups or surveys are more effective.
Determining pricing: If you want to know what users are willing to pay for your product, techniques like Van Westendorp’s price sensitivity meter are a more targeted approach.

When to conduct Usability Testing?

Usability testing isn’t a one-and-done task. It’s an ongoing process that evolves with your product, ensuring it continues to meet user needs and expectations. Testing at the right time makes all the difference. Here’s when usability testing matters most:

1. During the prototyping stage

Testing early helps you identify issues before they’re baked into the design. By validating ideas at the wireframe or mockup stage, you can ensure your navigation and user flows align with real-world expectations.

Example: Imagine testing an educational app prototype where students can join live classes. During usability testing, you find that users struggle to differentiate between “Join Class” and “View Class Details.” Early feedback allows you to rename buttons and simplify the interface before development begins.

2. Before launching your product

This is your chance to catch last-minute issues and ensure your product is polished. Focus on complex workflows and key user journeys, such as account setup or purchase flows, to deliver a frustration-free launch experience.

Example: For a home automation app, testing pre-launch might reveal that users can’t easily link their devices to the app. Fixing this issue ensures a smooth onboarding experience when the product hits the market.

3. During a redesign

Redesigns are the perfect opportunity to address old problems while introducing new solutions. Testing ensures your updates improve usability rather than complicating it further.

Example: If you’re redesigning a music streaming app, usability testing might reveal that users prefer a collapsible sidebar for navigation rather than persistent tabs. Adjusting your design based on this insight could increase engagement with your app's features.

4. After launch

Post-launch testing helps you keep improving based on real-world feedback. It’s also a great way to monitor how new features are being received and address any pain points users report.

Example: After releasing a subscription-based newsletter platform, you notice users frequently abandon the billing section. Testing reveals that unclear payment options are the culprit, allowing you to redesign the flow for better clarity.

5. Whenever you have specific questions

Usability testing is also ideal for tackling specific issues or hypotheses. Maybe you’re curious whether users can complete a task faster with fewer clicks or if a design tweak improves engagement.

Example: If you’re introducing a dark mode toggle to your productivity app, testing might reveal that users expect the option to appear in the main settings menu, rather than being buried under personalization options.

6. Regularly, to keep improving

User preferences and behaviors evolve over time. Conducting usability tests every few months helps you stay ahead, ensuring your product remains user-friendly and relevant even as expectations shift.

Example: Regular testing of a job portal might reveal that users are increasingly using mobile devices to apply for roles. This insight could lead you to optimize the mobile application process for speed and simplicity.

How Usability Testing Works?

Usability testing is straightforward, but a well-planned approach ensures better insights. Here’s how it works:

Define your objectives: What do you want to learn from the test? Are you evaluating navigation, testing a new feature, or identifying pain points in a specific workflow?
Plan the test: Write realistic tasks that mimic how users would naturally interact with your product. For example, “Find and purchase a red t-shirt under $50” or “Set up a new account and save your preferences.”
Recruit participants: Choose people who represent your target audience. For meaningful insights, aim for 5–10 participants per test.
Conduct the test: Ask users to complete tasks while observing their actions. Watch for moments of hesitation, confusion, or frustration, and encourage them to think aloud.
Analyze results: Look for patterns in user behavior and identify recurring issues. Combine qualitative insights (like user feedback) with quantitative metrics (like task completion rates).
Iterate and test again: Use your findings to make changes, then test those changes to ensure the issues are resolved.

The Foundations of Usability Testing

Before diving into the step-by-step process, let’s talk about what makes usability testing effective. It’s not just about the tools you use or the tasks you assign—it’s about adopting the right mindset. Usability testing succeeds when it’s grounded in these core principles:

1. It’s all about your users

Let’s face it: you’re not building this product for yourself. The true measure of success is how real people experience your product. Usability testing gives you the chance to step into their shoes, understand their challenges, and shape your design around their needs. When users feel your product was made for them, that’s when it truly shines.

2. Start early, test often

Usability testing isn’t a one-and-done deal. The earlier you test, the easier—and cheaper—it is to make changes. From the first sketch to the final release, testing throughout your product’s lifecycle helps you catch and fix issues before they grow into bigger problems. Think of it as building a bridge: it’s easier to adjust a blueprint than to rebuild a structure.

3. Make it real

The best insights come from real-world scenarios. Skip the artificial instructions and create tasks that reflect how users naturally interact with your product. If you’re testing a meal-planning app, don’t just ask, “Find a recipe.” Instead, try, “You’re planning dinner for a family of four. Find a recipe in under 30 minutes.” The more authentic the task, the more valuable the feedback.

4. Focus on progress, not perfection

Perfection is an illusion. Usability testing isn’t about creating a flawless product; it’s about identifying what matters most and improving step by step. Prioritize the biggest challenges your users face, and remember: small, meaningful changes can make a world of difference.

Types of Usability Testing

Usability testing isn’t one-size-fits-all. The right method depends on where you are in your product’s lifecycle and the kind of insights you need. Here’s a closer look at the primary types and how they can help you create a product that users love.

Moderated testing

Think of moderated testing as a guided session where a facilitator works directly with users. Whether in person or remotely, the facilitator walks participants through specific tasks, observing their behavior and asking follow-up questions to understand their actions better.

Moderated testing is especially useful when you need deep, qualitative insights. For example, if you’re testing a complex feature like setting up automated workflows in a SaaS platform, the facilitator can clarify confusing areas and dig into user feedback on the spot.

However, it does require more resources—coordinating schedules, skilled facilitators, and sometimes even dedicated usability labs. But the payoff? Detailed feedback that can shape your product's core functionality.

Unmoderated testing

Unmoderated testing is all about independence. Users complete tasks on their own, often using remote tools that record their actions. This method shines when speed and scale are priorities.

For instance, if you want to understand how hundreds of users interact with your e-commerce site’s checkout process, unmoderated testing gives you the data you need without the logistical overhead of coordinating individual sessions.

The downside? Without real-time interaction, you might miss the "why" behind user behavior. But if you pair it with follow-up surveys or interviews, it becomes a powerful way to gather large-scale insights efficiently.

Remote testing

Remote testing is the go-to option for reaching users anywhere in the world. Participants complete tasks from the comfort of their own environment, making it feel more natural. Plus, it’s perfect for testing digital products like apps or websites.

Imagine testing a language learning app with users in different countries. Remote testing ensures you capture feedback from diverse demographics, helping you refine the product for a global audience. Just be mindful of potential technical hiccups—poor internet connections or device compatibility can sometimes skew results.

In-person testing

In-person testing happens in a controlled environment, like a usability lab. It’s particularly valuable when testing physical products or interfaces requiring hands-on interaction, such as wearable devices or smart home gadgets.

For example, observing users set up a fitness tracker in person can reveal challenges that wouldn’t surface in a remote session. While it’s resource-intensive, the ability to watch non-verbal cues like body language or facial expressions adds depth to your findings.

Qualitative vs. quantitative testing

Qualitative testing focuses on the "why"—why users behave a certain way, what frustrates them, or what they like. Observing users struggle to locate a hidden feature in your app, for instance, gives you insights into design improvements.
Quantitative testing is all about numbers: completion rates, error counts, or task durations. It’s great for measuring usability performance or comparing design variations.

Together, these methods give you a well-rounded understanding of your product’s usability.

Explorative testing

Explorative testing is like brainstorming with your users. Conducted early in the design process, it helps uncover user needs and preferences. For instance, testing ideas for a travel app might reveal that users care more about flexible payment options than detailed itineraries.

Assessment testing

Think of assessment testing as a check-up during development. It ensures your product meets user needs before launch. If users struggle with your app’s login flow during assessment testing, you’ll have the chance to refine it before release.

Comparative testing

Sometimes, you need to compare two (or more) designs to see which performs better. For example, testing a vertical vs. horizontal navigation bar can reveal which option users find more intuitive.

Guerrilla testing

Guerrilla testing is quick, informal, and budget-friendly. Grab a prototype, head to a coffee shop, and ask random participants to try it out. It’s a great way to validate ideas before investing heavily in development.

How to choose the right method

Choosing the right type of usability testing depends on your project goals. Are you looking for quick feedback? Go guerrilla. Need deep insights? Opt for moderated sessions. Want data at scale? Unmoderated or remote testing has you covered.

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Often, combining methods gives you the best results.

Core elements of usability testing

Usability testing involves more than just observing users—it’s a structured process with distinct roles and tasks designed to uncover actionable insights. At the heart of any usability test are three key elements: the facilitator, the tasks, and the participant. Understanding these roles and how they interact ensures your tests are well-structured and effective.

The facilitator: guiding the session

The facilitator plays a crucial role in steering the usability test. Their responsibilities include:

Administering tasks: The facilitator provides clear instructions to participants, ensuring they understand the context without influencing their behavior.
Observing and asking questions: As participants perform tasks, the facilitator listens closely to their feedback, observes their behavior, and asks thoughtful follow-up questions to gain deeper insights.
Maintaining neutrality: A skilled facilitator ensures their presence doesn’t inadvertently guide or bias the participant. This requires a balance between being approachable and staying neutral.

In some cases, such as remote unmoderated testing, specialized software may take over some of the facilitator’s responsibilities, such as providing task instructions or recording feedback.

The tasks: realistic and purposeful

Tasks are the backbone of a usability test. They mimic real-world scenarios that users are likely to encounter, providing a realistic framework for evaluating the product’s usability.

Examples of effective tasks include:

“Your printer is showing an error message: ‘5200.’ Find out how to resolve this issue.”
“You’re looking for a credit card that suits your needs. Use this website to find the best option for you.”
“Locate where Tyler Smith from the Project Management department works using this intranet system.”

Best practices for tasks:

Clarity is key: Poorly worded tasks can confuse participants or lead them to act unnaturally, affecting the test's validity.
Reflect real-life scenarios: Tasks should align with typical user behavior, offering practical insights into how users navigate your product.
Neutral instructions: Avoid hinting at the solution. For example, instead of saying, “Click on the ‘Shop’ button to browse products,” say, “You’re looking for a birthday gift. How would you go about finding it?”

To ensure participants fully understand the task, consider having them read the instructions aloud. This not only confirms comprehension but also makes it easier for facilitators to track the task.

The participant: your window into user experience

Participants are at the center of any usability test, representing the end-users of your product. To gain meaningful insights, participants should closely reflect your target audience’s demographics, needs, and behaviors.

For instance:

Testing a budgeting app? Recruit participants who actively manage their finances.
Testing an educational platform? Include teachers, students, or other stakeholders as participants.

The think-aloud method: Participants are often asked to verbalize their thoughts while completing tasks. This approach sheds light on their motivations, frustrations, and decision-making processes. It allows facilitators to understand not just what users do but why they do it.

Bringing it all together

Imagine a typical usability test session: The participant sits at a workstation, navigating a product while the facilitator observes from nearby or remotely. The participant narrates their actions, expressing their thoughts, while the facilitator listens, takes notes, and asks occasional follow-up questions. Tools like screen-recording software capture every click and scroll, while a webcam records facial expressions, providing a rich set of data to analyze.

By combining the efforts of the facilitator, the structure of well-designed tasks, and the authentic experiences of participants, usability testing uncovers hidden opportunities to improve your product.

Step-by-step Usability Testing process

Usability testing might sound like a daunting task, but breaking it into clear and actionable steps makes it approachable—even fun! Think of it as a conversation between your product and its users, one that reveals hidden opportunities for improvement. Here’s how to conduct usability testing that delivers meaningful results:

Step 1: Define your goals

Every great usability test starts with a clear purpose. What are you trying to achieve? Are you validating a new feature, improving navigation, or uncovering pain points in a workflow? Setting clear goals keeps your testing focused and actionable.

Questions to ask yourself:

What specific questions do I need answers to?
Which areas or features of the product am I testing?
Am I evaluating functionality, ease of use, or overall satisfaction?

Example goals:

Determine if users can locate and use the search bar effectively.
Identify friction points in the checkout process.
Validate whether the onboarding experience feels intuitive.

Keep your objectives measurable. A question like, “Can users complete task X in under 3 minutes?” is more actionable than “Do users like the app?”

Step 2: Plan your test

A well-planned usability test is half the battle won. This involves writing realistic tasks, designing a test script, and choosing the right metrics to track.

Write realistic tasks: Your tasks should mirror real-world scenarios. Avoid overly scripted or leading instructions.

Example: Instead of saying, “Click on the navigation bar to find the ‘shop’ section,” try, “You’re looking for a gift for a friend. How would you find it on this website?”

Create a test script:
A script ensures consistency across sessions. Include:

A friendly introduction to make participants comfortable.
Clear, task-oriented instructions.
Follow-up questions to explore user thought processes.

Choose metrics to track: Common usability metrics include:

Task completion rate: the percentage of users who successfully complete a task.
Time on task: the time it takes for users to complete a task.
Error rate: the frequency of mistakes made during tasks.
Satisfaction scores: user feedback on their experience.

Step 3: Recruit the right participants

The quality of your insights hinges on the relevance of your participants. Aim to test with users who reflect your target audience.

Who to recruit: Consider demographics, technical skills, and familiarity with similar products. For instance, testing a budgeting app? Recruit users interested in managing their finances.

Recruitment strategies:

Use your customer base, email lists, or social media platforms.
Leverage usability testing tools like CleverX, UserTesting, Maze,
You can also partner with agencies to access niche user groups.

How many participants do you need?

For qualitative tests, 5–10 participants can uncover most usability issues.
For quantitative studies, larger sample sizes yield more reliable data.

Step 4: Conduct the test

This is where the magic happens. Whether you’re moderating the test or letting users complete tasks independently, the key is to observe without interfering.

Tips for a smooth session:

Set the tone: begin with a warm introduction and emphasize that the product—not the participant—is being tested.
Encourage thinking aloud: ask users to verbalize their thoughts as they navigate the product.
Avoid leading questions: instead of “Did you find that easy?” try, “How did you feel about completing that task?”
Be observant: watch for body language, hesitation, or frustration—they often reveal more than words.

Step 5: Analyze your results

Raw data means nothing without analysis. Look for patterns and insights that point to actionable improvements.

Key steps:

Identify trends: focus on recurring issues faced by multiple participants. If 6 out of 8 users struggle with navigation, you’ve found a critical area for improvement.
Combine data types: blend qualitative observations (user comments, behaviors) with quantitative metrics (completion rates, error counts).

Ask the right questions:some text
- What worked well for users?
- Where did users encounter challenges?
- What surprised you during the sessions?

Step 6: Report your findings

A great usability report doesn’t just highlight problems—it inspires solutions.

What to include:

Goals and summary: briefly state what you tested and why.
Key findings: highlight major usability issues with supporting evidence.
Recommendations: offer specific, prioritized suggestions for improvement.
Visuals: use session recordings, charts, or annotated screenshots to illustrate your points.

Pro tip:
Focus on actionable insights. Instead of saying, “Users struggled with task X,” explain why and suggest specific changes.

Step 7: Iterate and test again

Usability testing is not a one-time task. After implementing changes, test again to ensure issues are resolved and to uncover new opportunities for enhancement.

Here’s why it would help:

User expectations evolve over time.
Regular testing keeps your product user-friendly and competitive.
Iterative improvements ensure you’re always delivering the best experience possible.

Usability testing is a journey, not a destination. By breaking the process into these manageable steps, you’ll uncover valuable insights, refine your product, and deliver experiences that delight your users. Remember: the more you test, the better your product becomes.

Tips and best practices for Usability Testing
Usability testing is both an art and a science. To get the best results, follow these practical tips:

Test early, test often: Integrate usability testing throughout your product’s lifecycle. Early tests catch major flaws, while ongoing tests help you refine and adapt.
Prepare realistic tasks: Design tasks that reflect real-world scenarios to ensure authentic feedback. For instance, instead of “click here,” use open-ended prompts like “find a product within your budget.”
Recruit relevant participants: Ensure your participants match your target audience. Accurate feedback depends on testing with users who reflect your product’s real-world demographics.
Encourage thinking aloud: Ask participants to verbalize their thoughts as they complete tasks. This reveals motivations, frustrations, and unexpected challenges.
Combine qualitative and quantitative data: Pair user observations with metrics like task success rates to gain a holistic understanding of usability issues.
Document everything: Record sessions and take detailed notes to ensure no insights are lost. Well-documented findings make it easier to act on feedback and share with your team.
Prioritize accessibility: Ensure your product is inclusive by testing with diverse users, including those with disabilities. Use assistive technologies to identify potential barriers.
Iterate continuously: Usability testing isn’t one-and-done. Address critical issues first, then test again to validate improvements and uncover new opportunities.

Common challenges and solutions in Usability Testing

Usability testing is one of the most insightful processes in product development, but it’s not without its hurdles. From recruiting participants to making sense of mountains of data, challenges are inevitable. The good news? Each obstacle is an opportunity to refine your process and make usability testing more effective. Here’s how to tackle some of the most common issues.

Recruiting the right participants: Finding participants who truly represent your target audience can be tricky, especially if you’re working on a niche product. But the quality of your feedback heavily depends on the relevance of your testers.

What Works?

Start by narrowing down your audience personas.
Instead of generic criteria like "tech-savvy users," focus on specifics like "frequent travelers aged 25–35 who use budgeting apps."
Tools like CleverX and UserTesting are excellent for sourcing participants based on granular filters.

Don’t underestimate your existing network. Reach out to customers, email subscribers, or even social media followers. Incentivize participation with discounts, gift cards, or exclusive access to your product.

The goal is to test with users whose experiences closely match your actual audience, ensuring the insights you gather are actionable.

Working with limited budgets

Many teams hesitate to start usability testing, assuming it requires a significant financial investment. In reality, usability testing can be scaled to fit almost any budget.

Lean testing tactics: Guerrilla testing is an incredibly cost-effective approach. Take a prototype to a public space like a coffee shop or coworking area, and ask passersby to interact with it. Even quick feedback can uncover glaring usability issues.
Affordable tools: Free or low-cost platforms like Maze and Google Forms can provide actionable data for remote testing without breaking the bank.
Start small: Testing with just 3–5 participants is often enough to identify major usability bottlenecks. The key is iteration—start small, test frequently, and refine as you go.

You don’t need a massive budget to conduct usability testing—what matters most is consistency and actionability.

Navigating bias in feedback

Bias can creep into usability testing in subtle ways, from participants wanting to "please" the facilitator to researchers interpreting feedback through their own assumptions. Recognizing and minimizing bias is critical to gathering authentic insights.

Facilitator-free testing: Consider unmoderated testing for certain scenarios. Tools like Lookback.io allow participants to complete tasks on their own, eliminating the influence of a facilitator’s presence.
Neutral questions: Instead of asking, “Was that easy to use?” try, “How would you describe your experience with this feature?” Open-ended questions encourage honest and thoughtful responses.
Data to back it up: Complement user feedback with quantitative data like task success rates or time-on-task metrics. Numbers help validate findings and reduce subjective interpretations.

The more neutral and diverse your approach, the more accurate your insights will be.

Handling overwhelming data

Usability testing generates a lot of information—notes, videos, metrics, and user feedback. Without a plan, it’s easy to feel buried under the weight of it all.

Streamline analysis: Focus on patterns instead of outliers. If multiple users are struggling with the same navigation issue, it’s likely a red flag that needs immediate attention. Use visual methods to organize and review your data, such as grouping similar feedback or mapping user behaviors, to make recurring patterns easier to identify.
Prioritize issues: Not all usability problems carry the same weight. Tackle critical issues first—those that block users from completing core tasks—before addressing smaller frustrations.

By focusing on what matters most, you can transform a mountain of data into clear, actionable priorities.

Technical challenges in remote testing

Remote usability testing is convenient, but technical hiccups—like unstable internet connections or platform glitches—can derail the experience.

Test before testing: Conduct a quick technical check with participants beforehand to ensure their devices and connections are ready for the session.
Choose reliable platforms: Tools like Zoom and Lookback.io are built for remote testing, minimizing disruptions.
Backup plans: Always have a contingency in place, such as providing pre-recorded prototypes or rescheduling sessions when necessary.

Preparation goes a long way in making remote usability testing seamless and productive.

Incorporating accessibility

Accessibility isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a cornerstone of inclusive design. Yet, many usability tests fail to account for diverse user needs.

Inclusive recruitment: Include participants who rely on assistive technologies, like screen readers or alternative input devices, to test your product.
Accessibility standards: Use tools like Axe or Lighthouse to audit your product’s adherence to WCAG guidelines.
Real scenarios: Simulate how users with different abilities interact with your product. For example, can someone with low vision navigate your site using a screen reader?

Designing for accessibility ensures your product is usable by everyone—not just the majority.

Stakeholder resistance

Not everyone will immediately see the value in usability testing, especially if it contradicts pre-existing assumptions or design preferences.

Show, Don’t Tell: Let stakeholders observe user sessions firsthand. Seeing real users struggle with a feature is far more persuasive than a report.
Quantify the Impact: Highlight how usability issues can hurt customer retention, satisfaction, or revenue. Use session recordings and metrics like conversion rates to back up your claims.

Stakeholder buy-in is easier to achieve when the business value of usability testing is clearly demonstrated. Usability testing isn’t about eliminating all challenges—it’s about refining your process to overcome them effectively. By being proactive, adaptable, and user-focused, you can turn obstacles into opportunities to build better products.

Conclusion

Usability testing is the cornerstone of creating products that users truly love. It's a continuous journey of understanding user needs, uncovering frustrations, and refining experiences. By putting users at the heart of your design process, you ensure your product evolves to be intuitive, accessible, and truly enjoyable.