Memo

TO: Miss Enger

FROM: Tiffany Schulstad-Peterson, Janessa Thompson, Nichole Chapel, and Amy
Anderson
SUBJECT: Usability test report for candle instructions
DATE: 10 November 2010

This memo’s purpose is to inform you about the results of our usability test, performed on
Monday, November 8th. We will include the following sections: introduction, objectives,
methods, results, and conclusion.

Introduction

Our instructions are designed to inform users on the proper steps to make a scented candle. It
takes them step by step through the candle-making process. These instructions are directed at
people who enjoy arts and crafts. Whether they are beginners or experienced, these directions are
easy to follow.

Objectives

The main purpose of our instructions is to provide an easy step-by-step procedure for making a
homemade scented candle. Our instructions include a list of the necessary materials, set-up,
directions, and cleanup. We also include information about hazards involved to keep the user
safe.

The purpose of the test is to make sure that the instructions are clear and that the previously
mentioned objectives were met. This allows us to make necessary changes so that the directions
are flawless. Because our instructions are reader-centered, they are fun and easy to follow. We
are using pictures to make the steps easier to follow and more visually appealing to the reader.

Methods

Currently, our draft is fairly usable but there are some areas that need to be explained in more
detail. These areas are detailed in the results section. Jenna Benjaminson was our tester. She was
a good representative of our target audience because she enjoys decorating and she was
enthusiastic about the project. She met with Janessa on Monday night to test the instructions.
Janessa was with her while she performed the test in Jenna’s kitchen. She was present during the
test so that Jenna could ask her what to do if something was unclear. Janessa took note of all the
areas that seemed difficult or unclear. When the test was completed, Janessa had a good idea of
what we needed to improve. She brought the list to our group so that we could make the
necessary changes.
Results

Due to Jenna’s commentary during and after the usability test we have found these problems
with our instructions.

1. We need to include the size of the pot.

2. We need to address whether or not to cut up used candles before melting them.
3. We need to include cleanup instructions. Jenna had difficulty cleaning up her pot because
the wax hardened and she wasn’t sure how to get the remainder out.
4. We need to adjust our time-frame for when to poke holes in the wax and when the candle
will have set completely.
5. We need to include where to pour the wax into the container. Jenna wasn’t sure if she
could pour the wax over the pencil that was holding the wick or if she needed to pour it
on the side of the pencil.

We will make these necessary changes to our draft so that they are easier to follow. Although
there were some areas that needed improvement, there were aspects of our instructions that she
really enjoyed.

Jenna liked the concept of a homemade scented candle because it was an affordable and crafty
activity. She had wanted an orange candle for her office, so this was the perfect solution for her
since she didn’t want to buy one. She also liked the pictures that showed how to set up the wick
and container. She felt that having a visual aid was helpful in understanding the set-up step.

Conclusion

To conclude, our test trial of our instructions was very successful. Our instructions were clear
enough that the tester could complete the task. However, she also discovered some minor
changes we needed to make in order to improve our directions. We plan to make these changes
to our instructions to ensure future users do not encounter the same difficulties.