Dirty Testing
UX Design
What is Dirty Testing
Dirty Testing is a quick and informal usability testing method that prioritizes speed and early feedback over perfect research conditions. It focuses on gathering rapid insights with minimal preparation or formal protocols.
When to use Dirty Testing
Implement dirty testing when:
- Time is limited: Need quick feedback on design decisions
- Early stages: Testing rough concepts or prototypes
- Low-risk changes: Validating minor interface adjustments
How to conduct Dirty Testing
Execute quick tests by finding readily available participants (colleagues, nearby users), focusing on specific features or workflows, and collecting immediate feedback. Document key observations and critical issues without extensive formal analysis.
Benefits of Dirty Testing
This approach enables rapid iteration, reduces development risks, and catches obvious usability issues early. While not as thorough as formal testing, it helps teams maintain user-focused development with minimal resource investment.
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Even 3-5 participants can provide useful insights. Since the goal is quick feedback rather than comprehensive data, test with whoever is readily available while acknowledging the limitations.
Avoid for critical features, final validation, or when you need statistically significant data. Don't use it for decisions that require high confidence levels or formal documentation.
Focus on specific, well-defined questions or features, document key findings immediately, and acknowledge limitations in your conclusions. Use it as a supplement to, not replacement for, formal testing.
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