Alexander Lowe, Malik Simpson, Dakota Manns, Miles Madden 1

Usability Report for Lego Phone Stand

Introduction
Our team was tasked with testing the usability of the instructions we made for our Lego Phone
Stand. Through this test, we hope to discover any flaws, grammatical errors,
miscommunications, confusing wording, and unclear wording in the instructions to ensure the
most user-friendly directions that we can make. The user protocol test will involve giving a print
copy of the instructions to Subject 1 and having them assemble the product by using only the
instructions. No verbal or nonverbal aid will be given from the test administrators to Subject 1.
Methods
We approached this test with the intention of giving no help in an environment conducive to the
nature of the task. Seeing as we had limited options for subjects, we had to select a member from
our own team to conduct the user protocol test. Subject 1 was seated at a table that was free of
obstruction and free of detritus. They were given the 15-piece Lego set, the product description,
and the instructions for assembly. They were told to assemble this Lego set while speaking
whatever comes to their mind in relation to the task. A benefit to using a user protocol test is that
it saves time and money. We didnt have to go looking for subjects and were able to fairly
quickly obtain results. A downside to user protocol tests is that Subject 1 had already
encountered the finished product previously and their past experience may have skewed the
effectiveness of the instructions.
Location of Test
The test was performed in Sanford 304. This room is a computer lab that is relatively free of
noise and distraction aside from the sound of the AC units in the room. Another team testing their
products were also in this room. A benefit of using this room is that it was readily available and
saved us time and money as we did not have to find a quiet room in which to conduct the test. A
downside of the room is that we could not control the outside factors of noise and the presence of
other individuals may have distracted Subject 1.
Means of Recording Observations
Two methods were used to record the observations of the test: video recording and handwriting.
Both of these methods have their advantages and disadvantages which will be discussed in their
respective subheadings.
Video Recording
The benefit to using video recording is that the process is repeatedly viewable so that
areas of interest can be viewed multiple times to assess the situation fully. A disadvantage
to using video recording is that focus on the actual test might shift when attempting to

make sure the camera is framed correctly and in focus. The advantage outweighs the
disadvantage in this case because anything that was missed while filming can be
reviewed when watching the video.
Hand-writing
Hand-writing has an advantage because it allows for the recording of thoughts as they
happen rather than later when they may be forgotten. The disadvantage to handwriting is
that it can be slow and one can fall behind if the user is quickly assembling the product or
has a lot to say about it.
User Task
The user was tasked with assembling a set of 15 Legos that creates a phone stand. The user was
given a set of directions that directed him on how to assemble the product. The user was
recorded while he performed this test. The user was not to be given any outside help and had to
assemble it with only the guidance of the directions.
Results
The overall results of the test were positive. There we both areas in which the directions excelled
and areas in which revision is needed. The end product was successfully assembled but a few
pieces differed from the model product. The overall function of the product remained the same
but the visual design was slightly modified upon assembly.
Complications
Steps 9, 13, and 14 appeared to be confusing and unclear. Step 9 was confusing because the
placement of piece 8 was not specified. Step 13 was confusing because the wording was unclear
and no directions were given as to whether the piece should be placed vertically or horizontally.
Step 14 was confusing because of step 13 for the previously stated reasons.
Areas of Success
The instructions were successfully because of several factors. First, the numbering of the Legos
helped Subject 1 build the product without confusion as to what pieces of Lego were supposed to
be placed. Subject 1 specifically thought step 2 was useful so that he didnt have to figure out
that the piece needed to be upturned. Subject 1 said that the overall wording was concise and
clear so that most people with a base knowledge of reading could comprehend them.

Implications

The overall test was effective in letting us know of several key areas in the documentation that
could be improved. Furthermore, it informed us of how to properly document in the future when
we release more products.
Revisions
There are several steps that need to be taken to overcome the problems that we encountered
during the usability test. One step that needs to be taken involves revising steps 9, 13, and 14. We
will comb over these steps and attempt to reword them to address the issues of ambiguity and
lack of clarity in their intent. Furthermore, we intend to look over the entire document to ensure
that there are no other areas that we can find that need clarification. Additionally, we will be
adding figures of the product in the instructions to give the consumer a visual representation and
guide of what theyre creating.
Clarity of Documentation
We learned a great deal about the clarity of documentation during this process. For starters, if
you arent allowed any visual aids, one must be as detailed as possible and describe every
movement that one must make to assemble the product. Simple acts like forgetting to specify the
orientations of a piece can cause all the future steps to be in vain due to a small miscalculation of
location by the user. It is important to point out where each piece goes and how it should be
oriented.
Conclusion
Overall, the usability test was successful in identifying some key areas in which improvement is
needed. We will address the issues of ambiguity by revising steps 9, 13, and 14 as well as rereading the entire document to find other areas which could gain benefit from revision. To aid
with the visual process, we will be adding several pictures so that the user can see if they have
successfully put together the product. Further improvement is needed before this product is ready
to be released but we are confident that with these revisions, the product will be quite a success
due to the clarity of the language and the specific instructions.