Top Tasks Performance: Create research plan to test performance

[jaclinec]

In Q1 and Q2 2023, the USWDS team conducted a Top Tasks research study to learn what users’ most critical tasks are on the USWDS website. After learning what our users’ top tasks are, we now want to investigate how easy or difficult those tasks are to carry out. In other words, we want to measure top tasks’ performance. Gauging performance will allow us to discover the opportunities for improvement to help users more easily carry out the things that are most important to them on our site.

• [x] Create research plan and script draft
• [x] Review the plan and script with the team
• [x] Edit and finalize drafts according to feedback

[jaclinec]

I've started some planning in this draft, starting on page 4: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1VrTjgW3adHO94UE2witTJMnpnVcIwE7O-ZzA1y15vxU/edit?usp=sharing

[jaclinec]

We've decided to conduct 2 separate usability tests - one for designers and leaders, and another for developers. Since developers' top tasks are more technical and specific to their role, it makes sense to conduct 2 separate tests.

I've created the script for the test with designers and leaders. Next step is sharing the plan and script with the team and also meeting with developers to help come up with tasks for the test with developers. I'm creating a separate issue for top tasks test planning with developers here. #2240

[jaclinec]

I shared the overall method for the research study (qualitative usability testing) with the team, and we agreed that this was the method we want to move forward with over the more quantitaive approach of using the Task Performance Indicator (TPI) method by Gerry McGovern. We see value in obtaining more qualitative data and having flexibility to have conversations with participants.

Next, I need to share details of the plan to see if folks agree that the tasks look appropriate and invite them to share ideas or other feedback.

[jaclinec]

I recently edited the plan and script and it is ready for review. I will share details of the scenarios and tasks with the team to get their thoughts before finalizing it.

[jaclinec]

This draft is ready for review. Would love for one person from CS @sarah-sch @katieekline to take a look at the current draft of this research plan and add any comments. Particularly interested in your feedback on the Tasks section wording.

Once reviews from CS and feds are done, I can move forward with recruiting for sessions.

[jaclinec]

Marking this issue as done since Sarah and Anne have both had a chance to review and add comments.