Usability testing is a technique used in user-centered interaction design to evaluate a product by testing it on users. It involves observing real users as they attempt to complete tasks on a product, such as a website or app, and collecting qualitative and quantitative data to identify any usability problems and determine the participants satisfaction with the product. The goals of usability testing include identifying problems in the design of the product or service, uncovering opportunities to improve, and collecting insights, findings, and anecdotes about how people use the product or service.

To run an effective usability test, a solid test plan needs to be developed, participants need to be recruited, and the findings need to be analyzed and reported. Usability testing can be done in any setting, including a fixed laboratory or a room with portable recording equipment. Usability testing is crucial for new products and when redesigning existing ones to verify improvements and discover new problem areas.

Benefits of usability testing include clarity and focus on user needs, avoiding internal bias, and providing valuable insights to achieve successful, user-friendly designs. Usability testing is an ongoing process that requires iteration, feedback loops, and revisions throughout the product lifecycle.