An Iterative Approach to Usability Evaluation: A Workplace Wellness Mobile Application Example

Without a gold standard for mobile app usability testing, this paper outlines a case study of how a not-for-profit organization tested the usability of a public-facing mobile app designed to promote the health and wellbeing of workers in Canada by offering accessible resources conveniently through one's mobile phone. Although the app was developed by a third-party vendor, usability testing and refinement was left to the organization due to budgetary and time constraints. The app underwent three rounds of iterative usability testing. The first phase consisted of observing participants using the app followed by an interview. The second and third phases involved participants following task-based instructions and answering survey questions. All phases uncovered issues which helped to improve and refine the usability of the app before the launch to the public. This work offers a case study example of how low-cost in-house usability testing could be employed.