D1
design detailed and relevant testing methods, which generate data, to measure the success of the solution
Designers evaluate their designs in order to measure the success of their solution. Evaluation helps us know if we achieved our design goal and identify areas for improvement.
This step involves creating a Testing Plan (D1) that will evaluate the design (C3) using the Design Specifications (B1)
Types of tests
Designers categorize tests into three types
user trial and observation: These are tests where the user uses the product and designer gathers data
field/performance test: These are tests that measure how well the product functions or performs.
expert appraisal: These are tests that gather feedback from an expert
Choose the appropriate test type for the design specification (B1). You need to consider which type of test will provide an accurate evaluation.
It is important that your tests are Authentic: The tests need to be relevant to the project and completed by appropriate testers to gain high-quality quantitative and qualitative feedback.
Creating a Testing Plan
In MYP Design Year 5, we expect your testing plan to include the following:
A test for each specification in B1
At least one test that gathers Quantitative Data
At least one test that gathers Qualitative Data
Authentic and realistic tests
Organise your testing plan using the following sections:
Design Specification
Copy and paste each design specification from B1
Goal
State what you are going to measure in one sentence. For example:
To evaluate the dimensions
To measure the interior volume
To evaluate how well the users can open the case
To evaluate the aesthetic qualities of the design.
Data Type
State the type of data the test will gather. It will either be:
Quantitative
Qualitative
Test Type
List the type of test you are going to do. You should choose from one of the following:
user trial and observation: These are tests where the user uses the product.
field/performance test: These are tests that measure how well the product functions or performs.
expert appraisal: These are tests that gather feedback from an expert
Description of Method
Describe the method you are going to use to gather the data.
You should include enough detail that another person could follow your plan.