When I started looking for information on how to perform usability tests, this book was the most recommended. After reading through the book, I have to agree that this book is excellent at covering all aspects you’ll need to get started.

I when through about every iteration of usability testing that Jeffrey Rubin suggested. I started with being in the room, with others watching. Then I moved everyone out of the room, and had them watch remotely. Finally, I removed even myself, and performed the entire test remotely from my office. To accomplish this, I used an Axis ethernet camera to watch the participant, VNC to remotely watch the participant’s screen, Camtasia Studio to record the session and screen, and a flash application to provide scenarios and log time.

While this book will get you started, it doesn’t teach you everything. You can only learn the rest through studies in statistics, psychology, and experience. When it comes to usability testing and reliable results, everything becomes a factor: Did I assist too much? Was my voice too threatening? Was my scenario ill written? Was the participant having a bad day? Does the participant truly match my target audience?

But, you can worry about the accuracy after you learn the process. Start with this book. You won’t be sorry. No matter how bad you perform a usability test, you’re bound to learn something of value that will make it all worth while.