Box introduces Nob Yoshigahara as the puzzle inventor behind the number-tree puzzle he asks the audience to solve. Box says he took the number-tree puzzle from a book by Alex Bellos, the Guardian's maths correspondent. Box defines deductive reasoning as top-down logic that starts with a premise and reasons within its constraints to a logical conclusion. Box uses the design squiggle to represent a messy design state becoming a clear, untangled line. Box describes inductive reasoning as bottom-up reasoning that starts with an observation and extrapolates to a theory or model. Box gives usability testing as a UX activity used alongside stakeholder interviews to understand project objectives.
People
James Box
Methods
Usability TestingUsability testing reveals where people struggle while attempting realistic tasks with a prototype or service. In a moderated session, a researcher observes the participant and may ask them to explain their thinking. Use it to investigate confusing language, layouts or interactions and identify improvements. Agree research questions, recruit likely users and prepare believable tasks that do not reveal the solution. Explain that the service is being tested, then mostly watch and listen rather than guiding participants. Record observations and follow up on unclear behaviour. Plan accessible sessions, including participants’ own assistive technology when appropriate.