URL - Facilities
Usability Research Laboratory Facilities
The Texas Tech Usability Research Lab (URL) has approximately 440 square feet of testing area that can be adapted as necessary to facilitate a variety of user testing protocols. A one-way mirror separates test participants from observers, allowing for discrete observation. Multiple computer work stations (up to six) can be configured. Each is a Dell Machine bundled with the latest software for testing. The room has multiple high speed (T1) Internet access ports for web site or other online testing.
Recording equipment includes six mobile digital cameras, six high quality audio recording devices, and two Canon Overhead, Ceiling-Mounted Cameras capable of remote control from the observation room. In addition, the lab uses MORAE, the state-of-the-art usability testing software, enabling for eye tracking and other key qualitative evaluation and analysis to occur inside and outside the lab. In fact, to assist with remote testing, the lab can check out up to 5 laptops to users complete with Logitech webcams, or MORAE client licenses can be set up on any remote machine, enabling the lab to be able to test users regardless of their location.
All video/audio data can be recorded and stored securely on a LACIE remote hard drive (1 terabyte of storage space), or streamed live time to interested parties, such as clients not on-site.
Focus groups, multi-user testing, web sites, software, remote or on-site testing--the URL is capable of handling any variety of testing subjects and products/processes, providing valid, rigorous user-centered assessment.
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Workstations - Monitor recording, telephones, | portable cameras and microphones |
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Waiting area | Ceiling-mounted cameras |