“Ten Steps for Conducting a User Observation˝ˇ? (Apple Computer. 1992. p.43 - 46)
Introduce yourself and describe the purpose of the observation.
Tell the participant that it s OK to quit at any time.
Talk about the equipment in the room.
Explain how to think aloud.
Explain that you will not provide help.
Describe in general terms what the participant will be doing.
Ask if there are any questions before you start; then begin the observation.
During the observation, remember several pointers: “Stay alert . . . A great deal of the information you can obtain is subtle.˝ˇ? “Ask questions or prompt the participant.˝ˇ?
Conclude the observation.
Use the results.