Usability Testing & Evaluation
of ReadySetGrad.gov

---

This project was designed to pinpoint specific challenges on the ReadySetGrad.gov website and recommend ways to overcome them. A site navigation tree test was developed and taken by students, parents and educators. Additionally, a survey was administrated to gather qualitative feedback from users about the content, design, and site navigation.

Test results showed that the site’s current navigational structure made it difficult for users to find certain content, and analysis from the survey and follow-up phone interviews supported the findings. A comprehensive strategy for website development and design recommendations were provided based on the test results and evaluations.

My role: Project Manager/User Researcher

Infographic with findings summary and design recommendations

Existing vs Experimental Navigation Trees

The usability test assigned audience groups one of two different navigation systems randomly. The existing site heavily utilizes Ready, Set, Grad for labeling navigational pages and focuses on audience at a granular level. The experimental site navigation focuses on tasks.

Test Results

Users were given a list of 10 tasks focused on finding different pages on the website. The Experimental Site Navigation had significantly more success than the Existing Site Navigation. We were able to provide a full list of recommendations using results from the usability tests.