Introduction

The user protocol test was implemented in order to determine the effectiveness of the
instructions for construction of the model. With successful directions, the user would be able to
assemble the model relatively easily, and without difficulties. It was our goal to produce a proper
set, powerful enough to allow the user to build the structure with timeliness and ease. To
accomplish this in the usability test, it was up to our group to observe the user and identify both
strengths and weaknesses within our set of directions. This process allowed us to spot flaws on
our part, as well as on the user's end. The test serves as a means for improvement and an
opportunity for development.
Methods
First we booked a room in the library and texted everyone the location and time.
All members of the group arrived, and the process began.
We proceeded to contact one of Jalens friends to participate in our usability test.
Using video recording software we documented the usability test.
During the usability test each of us noted positive and negative aspects of our
instructions.
The members of the group also took notes on specific actions of the user, to
confirm the effectiveness of our instructions.
Next we compiled our notes into a single document.
The group took information from the notes taken, and reviewed them for
relevance and applicability.
We proceeded to adjust and improve our instructions based off the usability test
notes.
Results
First Attempt
The user attempted to construct the LSA Rover without any prior knowledge of the finished
product. He immediately began having difficulty with step 2, he was confused about where to
place both 2x4 legos on top of the axle. This caused each step thereafter to be incorrect, we
eventually decided to stop the test and show him the finished product so we could get more
appropriate feedback.
Second Attempt
After seeing the finished product the test went much smoother. During the second usability test
the user was able to get passed step 2 with ease. Everything was going smoothly until step 6,
there was some confusion about where to place part A5. Instead of placing the part flush
underneath the LSA Rover he was placing part A5 in a way that it was only attached to parts E1
and E2. Step 7 contained a minor clerical error about the placement of part B1(small wheels),
however after a brief period of time the user was able to complete the step properly and move
forward with the building process. Despite the errors on steps 6 and 7 the user was able to
continue the construction of the LSA Rover and successfully finish the remaining steps without
much difficulty.
Summary of results

By observing the finished product, the user was more easily able to construct the LSA Rover
after visualizing the general appearance. Once the base of the Rover was completed in
construction, it was easier for him to proceed with the rest of the construction. The errors late in
the building process were mainly due to minor confusions that were assuaged with common
sense about the appearance of the structure. Another reason for confusion was errors on the
part of the creators, which would soon be fixed and adjusted.
Implications
Improvements
Upon completion of the usability test we were able to pinpoint a few aspects of our instructions
that needed minor revising. Our team decided to color code certain parts of our instructions to
make them more aesthetically pleasing and assist in guiding the user in the construction of the
LSA Rover, this was beneficial because it allows the builder to know which color lego to use
without the hassle of referencing the parts picture during each step.
Solving the Problem
Next we reformatted the steps 2, 6, and 7 so that they were much clearer and descriptive of
where the parts should be placed on the LSA Rover. This was accomplished by changing the
descriptions and phrasing, for example on step 2: Instead of saying place A2 and A3 side by
side lengthwise we added the lego dimensions after each part name as well as encouraging
the user to reference the parts photo for guidance.
Creating effective instructions
It was important to look as the specific areas of confusion within out instructions. By making
improvements to those steps and clarifying what is expected in each, the effectiveness of the
steps can be greatly improved. Areas of minor details are important to revise, as they provide
the foundation of the entire construction. Small adjustments in the beginning steps 2 and 3
involve laying down the substructure. If not done correctly these steps could deform the whole
LSA Rover.
Conclusion
All in all, this report allowed us to pull the findings and use them as the basis for change within
our written instructions. As a group, we found it important to convene and discuss the observed
aspects of usability in the users construction of our LSA Rover. The steps taken to improve our
instructions involved pinpointing specific areas of difficulties and clarifying them. While it was
true that not every user might have the same troubles with construction, it was important to use
this report to find which steps required more attention.