UX Paper Prototyping

By: Kasey Wang
 
    @bitpixi

What is paper prototyping?

  • Sketching, printouts, or constructions with paper as substitutes for digital representations
     
  • In a usability study, the sketches are switched according to user actions
     
  • Can be various levels of complexity
     

Advantages

  • Cheap
     
  • Rapid
     
  • Collaborative
     
  • Not limited by technology or ability
     
  • Easy to document

Disadvantages

  • Only suitable for personal brainstorming or light testing early on
     
  • Feedback may differ in paper vs digital form
     
  • Sometimes not as fast as lo-fi digital (having to re-create the screens)

Supplies:

  • Paper / Index Cards
  • Pens / Pencils
  • Tape / Glue
  • Scissors
  • Printouts (Optional)
  • 3D Prop Supplies (Optional)

Examples: 3D, Games, Apps

Questions to ask before testing:

 

  • Why did you create this prototype?
  • What do you want to achieve with this testing session?
  • What information do you want to receive from the test participants?

    (Test with 5 people to find ~80% of Usability problems*)

* Based on data from NN Group

My usability testing tips:

  • Find participants at coffeeshops, co-working spaces, events, or online
     
  • Offer to buy a coffee or $5 gift card for their time
     
  • Keep the test short
     
  • Let them know you're testing a product - not testing them!

    "No wrong answers"

Watch a usability study:

Notice how the tester acts as the "computer", switching each page.

Mini Quiz

  • At what stage should a paper prototype be made?
     
  • What are 2 advantages to paper prototyping?
     
  • In a TL;DR version, how does one perform a usability test with a paper prototype?

Resources

Thank You!

UX Paper Prototyping

By Kasey

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UX Paper Prototyping

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