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Expert evaluation: Heuristic analysis

Development / LaunchqualitativeIntermediate

TL;DR

Identify usability problems based on recognized heuristics.

Detailed description

Heuristic Analysis is an expert evaluation methodology where usability specialists examine an interface by applying recognized design principles, such as Nielsen's heuristics. This technique allows identifying potential usability problems without requiring end users, being especially valuable in early development stages or when user access is limited. Academic literature supports its effectiveness in detecting between 75-85% of usability problems (Nielsen Norman Group). It is recommended to involve multiple evaluators to maximize coverage of identified problems.

Main objective

Identify usability problems based on recognized heuristics.

When to use it

At any time, useful when there is no direct access to users.

Effort level

Low to Medium

Recommended number of users

1–5 experts

Advantages

  • ✓Fast and cost-effective
  • ✓Doesn't require users
  • ✓Identifies obvious problems
  • ✓Guided by established principles

Disadvantages

  • ✗Subjective to evaluator
  • ✗May miss specific problems
  • ✗Doesn't validate with real users
  • ✗Biased by expert's experience

When to use

  • •Quick interface evaluation
  • •When there's no access to users
  • •Usability audits
  • •Pre-launch review

Metrics

  • 📊Number of problems identified
  • 📊Problem severity
  • 📊Violated heuristics
  • 📊Actionable recommendations

Practical example

Experts review an ecommerce purchase process applying Nielsen's heuristics.