What is RITE in test-driven development?
RITE is a short form of Rapid Iterative Testing and Evaluation. It is a usability testing technique that involves several times iteratively evaluating a solution to an issue. In this, not only the usability issues are found, but also find ways to respond rapidly and look for new solutions that address them. This flow corresponds to an experience we can deliver with high confidence (in terms of usability), eliminating the suspicions about whether the suggested solution would be usable.
How does it work?
A RITE study can be carried out similarly to a conventional usability test and is relatively easy, but RITE is different due to the following:
- Its sample size.
- It fixes the issue immediately upon identification.
The demonstration of the RITE is given below:
Step 1: Start with two participants.
Step 2: Check the issue.
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If issues are found, address them, and repeat Step 1 with three new participants.
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If issues are not found, then move to Step 3.
Step 3: Add two more participants.
Step 4: Check the issue.
- If issues are found, address them, and repeat Step 1 with three new participants.
- If issues are not found after testing five participants, then it’s done!
Elements
The elements of RITE are as follows:
Rapid and iterative testing involves fewer participants that should quickly fix any usability issues and conduct another round of testing with the new subject matter. This approach re-iterates until no new usability problems arise.
Classification of issues proceeds through the test sessions more quickly, and these are categorized as follows:
Classification of issues
Category | Description | Action |
A | Issues can be immediately addressed with a clear cause and fixed in the prototype, such as changing text or re-labeling buttons. | Use this version for the subsequent test session, and implement solutions immediately. |
B | Issues can't be implemented with a clear cause and solution immediately or before the next test session starts. | Start developing a solution to these issues, then test it during a subsequent session. |
C | Either the issues that have no apparent cause or the issues that other elements have caused during work instructions. | Until they are promoted to Category A or B, gather further information at the subsequent session. |
Domain knowledge and decision-making respond rapidly to the lessons from each session. The decision-makers in the team should be present or have read up on the session insights. Domain knowledge is crucial to determine if the observed problems are likely to be a problem for others.
Strengths and weaknesses
RITE offers a short feedback loop where user insights are promptly incorporated, product teams are given a clear perception of progress, and promoters of user-centered design are created.
Strengths
- Engages the whole team in the process.
- Reduces designers’ potential “fear of failure” by enabling speedy design iteration.
- Design lead may build better after listening to the other’s insight. It also helps with rich designs.
Weakness
- Guarantee a consistent pool of participants. Full-time recruiting assistance is required.
- It requires a time commitment and ongoing participation from all parties.
- Depending on the software/UI design, some modifications might not be achievable in a short timeline.
Roles of the team
RITE promises a quick and iterative procedure for assessing and refining design prototypes. It can only be successful if everyone involved understands their roles and adheres to the timeline. Make sure to familiarise yourself with your specific responsibilities before deciding on a schedule with your team.
- Product designers give themselves enough time to construct a design prototype, then create a test based on the prototype. Watch the sessions and consider the findings as soon as they are available. Make judgments regarding the necessary updates for the upcoming round with the product manager. Record all discovered usability issues by classifying them into the three groups (A–C) discussed above in the table of classification of issues.
- Product managers schedule time to watch each research session on acceptance of study. In the team sync, discuss your findings and decide with the product designer about the new modifications for the upcoming iteration.
- Engineering gathers a team to create an excellent product, and constant exposure to actual users is essential. In team syncs, offer opinions to resolve all the practical sessions.
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