Remote usability testing in healthcare: Evaluating tools and technologies from afar

In healthcare settings, frustrating and confusing product and system designs can lead to use errors that can negatively impact patient safety. Usability testing is an established and widely used human factors evaluation method which can be employed to assess ease of use. In a usability test, participants complete simulated tasks using a product or system, and insights gained from their interactions are used to inform design changes. COVID-19, cost savings, and reduced travel have driven the expansion of remote usability beyond more traditional in-person testing. Two project examples are used to showcase how remote usability testing can be applied to both a dynamic web-based patient safety reporting system and a static clinical cognitive aid. Next, the benefits and pitfalls of remote usability testing, and when the method can be utilized effectively, are examined. Finally, strategies for using videoconferencing platforms to successfully evaluate various healthcare products and systems are shared.