Prototype
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Our low-fi
prototype is made out of paper clippings based on the existing
SFnight prototype. During low-fi design process, user interface
components are drawn in several Microsoft Word pages with tables.
Each table cell is populated with mockup data, instructions, mockup
content, images and icons with font, color and styles according
to initial design ideas. Our low-fi prototype is not a functional
prototype. It is designed to provide some screen designs that
can be used to prompt user discussion.
The low-fi
designs are then printed out on paper using laser printer. Each
page has several copies. Each component in the interface is then
cut into individual pieces. These components are to be used to
assemble alternative page organizations.
The title
image and navigation bar are the same across the website. They
form the main frame that contains interface components. Several
copies of SFnight prototype main page are printed out on paper
as the base layer for interface components assembly. Contents
other than title image and navigation bar are cut off to make
room for component assembly. The remaining frame is then inserted
into clear, plastic sheet protectors. Components are attached
to the base layer with tape. Each page represents one interface
screen that will be displayed to testers.
Interface
components are taped onto the plastic sheet protector in positions
predefined in our initial design. These components can be relocated
and manipulated according to the needs of team members when reconsidering
design decisions. Various screens for interactions we want to
test are assembled in this manner. These paper mockups are then
ordered according to interaction diagram.
In the
testing session, the mockup page for main page is attached onto
the screen of a computer monitor. The use of a computer monitor
to physically support the low-fi prototype gives tester the same
eye position of a real interface. The subject is seated in front
of the computer and interacts with paper mockup. When he/she makes
a decision to follow a link in the mockup, she just need to point
to a link with a pen signifying pointing and clicking using mouse.
One of
the team members plays computer. During the test session, he observes
actions of the subject. When the subject "clicks" a link in the
mockup, the team member changes mockup accordingly. In some occasions,
the subject may click a link that has no correspondent mockup
ready for display. In such occasions, the team member orally describes
what the system does and what will be displayed in computer screen.
When the subject finishes a task, a different team member playing
the facilitator role will inform the participant and direct he/she
to the next step.
