Testing Design Solutions with Stakeholders

Stakeholders include users, clients, manufacturers, and anyone with an interest in the design outcome.

Testing with stakeholders ensures the product aligns with their expectations, is fit for purpose, and supports iterative improvement.

It also reduces the chance of late-stage design failure and wasted resources.

1. Early Testing (Concept Stage)

• Sketches, storyboards or CAD models reviewed by stakeholders.
• Focuses on initial ideas and direction — feedback helps refine early concepts.

2. Mid-Development Testing

• Prototypes or mock-ups tested for usability, function, ergonomics, and safety.
• Feedback used to guide refinements before final design lock-in.

3. Final Evaluation

• Final product compared against stakeholder requirements and design specification.
• Confirms whether the solution has been successful and acceptable for production/use.

Testing Method	Advantages	Disadvantages
User Trials	Real feedback from intended users	May be hard to organise or control
Focus Groups	Provides group insight and discussion	Small sample may not represent all users
Surveys/Questionnaires	Quantitative results from larger audiences	Limited depth; open to misinterpretation
Prototyping & Modelling	Allows tangible feedback and testing	Time and cost required to build prototypes
Virtual Simulation	Fast, adaptable and cost-effective	May lack realism or detail

Checklist for Final Evaluation

1. Functionality:
   • Does it perform all intended functions?
   • Does it work reliably and safely?
2. User Feedback:
   • Do users find it intuitive and accessible?
   • Were any issues reported during testing?
3. Requirements Met:
   • Does it match the original specification?
   • Are stakeholder expectations satisfied?
4. Commercial Success (if applicable):
   • Will the product sell and perform well in the market?
   • Is the cost reasonable compared to similar products?

Method Type	Use	Examples
Quantitative	Measuring performance or satisfaction numerically	Ratings, test results, time trials, defect counts
Qualitative	Understanding user emotions, opinions, behaviours	Interviews, focus groups, observational notes

Topic test:

Interactive flashcards: