UX Research

Project: A/B Usability Testing of Recipe Discovery Mobile Applications

Overview:

This project involved conducting a comparative usability study of two mobile applications, "Supercook" and "My Fridge Food," to evaluate their effectiveness in helping users find recipes based on available ingredients. The study aimed to identify usability challenges and understand user preferences, ultimately providing data-driven insights for potential improvements. This project was conducted as part of my UX Research coursework and involved a comprehensive usability testing process.

Accomplishments:

- Study Design and Execution:
I designed and executed a non-mediated, remote usability study, utilizing a combination of quantitative and qualitative data collection methods.
I recruited 11 participants through convenience sampling, ensuring a mix of individuals with limited experience using recipe apps.
I developed clear task scenarios and instructions to guide participants through the testing process.
I managed the entire testing process, ensuring consistent data collection and adherence to the study protocol.

- Data Collection and Analysis:
I employed a mixed-methods approach, utilizing the System Usability Scale (SUS), Product Reaction Cards, the Product Emotion Measurement Instrument (PreMo), and open-ended feedback questions.
I analyzed quantitative data from the SUS and PreMo surveys to assess user satisfaction and emotional responses.
I conducted a thematic analysis of qualitative data from Product Reaction Cards and open-ended feedback to identify key usability issues and user insights.
I used an adaptation of the NPS score method to evaluate the likeliness of users to recommend the apps.

- Comparative Analysis and Reporting:
I conducted a detailed A/B comparison of the two applications, identifying key differences in usability and user experience.
I synthesized findings into a comprehensive report, highlighting key insights, recommendations, and conclusions.
I used clear data visualizations to communicate findings effectively.
I identified and explained anomalies in the data, and proposed possible hypothesis for those anomalies.

- Research Question and Hypothesis Testing:
I formulated a clear research question and hypothesis to guide the study.
I analyzed the data to determine if the hypothesis was supported, and addressed the research question.


Results:

- Identified Key Usability Issues:
The study revealed significant differences in usability between the two applications, with "Supercook" generally receiving higher user satisfaction scores.
Key usability issues identified included the lack of predictive search functionality in "My Fridge Food" and the inconsistency in recipe results.
"Supercook" was seen as more intuitive, and the results it provided were more in line with user expectations.
"My Fridge Food" was seen as more basic, and less helpful.

- Provided Data-Driven Insights:
The findings provided valuable insights into user preferences and expectations for recipe discovery applications.
The study highlighted the importance of intuitive search functionality and relevant recipe results.
The study reinforced the need for consistent visual design within applications.

- Demonstrated Methodological Proficiency:
The study showcased my ability to design and execute a rigorous usability testing process.
The use of mixed-methods data collection and analysis demonstrated my ability to gather and interpret diverse data.


Skills Demonstrated:

- Usability Testing:
Study design, task development, and execution.

- Data Collection and Analysis:
SUS, Product Reaction Cards, PreMo, thematic analysis.

- Comparative Analysis:
A/B testing, identifying key differences.

- Reporting and Communication:
Synthesizing findings, creating clear reports, data visualization.

- Research Methodology:
Hypothesis testing, research question formulation.

- User-Centered Design:
Understanding user needs and preferences.