For installation instructions, read here.
Starting a Test
Once you accept a test and click “Start Recorder” on your dashboard, you’ll have the option to walk through a tutorial on how to use the Browser Recorder. Note that you can expand and collapse the task instructions by clicking the arrow icon.
You can also move the task widget around if it is blocking something on your screen. To do this, click and hold the drag handle to drag it to any corner of your browser window.
After the tutorial, you’ll see a Mic Check screen. You won’t be able to proceed until the recorder determines that your audio is loud enough. Please be sure to plug in your microphone BEFORE launching the recorder to avoid any errors. Click “Next Step” on this screen once the button becomes active.
Note: Keep an eye on the audio indicator throughout your test to make sure that the microphone icon is fluctuating.
Read through the reminders on the following screen and keep them in mind throughout your test.
Once you click "Start Recording", you should see a pop-up asking you to share your screen. If you have multiple monitors, make sure you choose the screen with UserTesting open in your browser window.
NOTE: At the bottom of your browser window, you will see a small banner reminding you that UserTesting is sharing your screen with the recording software. If you click Stop Sharing, this will automatically end the test. If you do this, we will not be able to pay you for your time.
Please click Hide on this banner so that you can see the customer's entire website or app throughout the test.
Navigating through a test
Once you start recording, the test website will automatically load, and the task widget will appear in the top right corner of your browser window.
First, you will see the scenario for the test. The scenario is the mindset you should keep in mind throughout the test, and it will help you step into the shoes of the target customer for this test. For example, if the scenario states: “Imagine that you want to buy a holiday sweater for your dog”, do your best to pretend that you are really buying a sweater for your dog, even if you don’t have one.
After you’ve read and understood the scenario, click "Start". You’ll be taken to the first task.
The task instructions in the top right corner will provide you with the test instructions and the actions you should complete as you browse the website. Please read each task carefully and make sure you complete the task in its entirety and as requested.
When you’re ready to begin the task, click “Begin this step”. This will minimize the task instructions so that you can view the customer’s full site.
When you want to see the task instructions again or are ready to move on to the next task, click the arrow icon. When you’re finished with the task, click “Next Step”.
Note: Make sure to find a quiet place where you can focus for the duration of your test. If you do get interrupted during a recording, click the pause button on the recorder and resume when you are ready to focus again. It's helpful to briefly state why you paused when you resume.
Reporting a problem
If you get stuck during a test and either can’t complete a task or aren’t sure what to do next, click the menu next to the pause button. This will open a window where you’ll be able to choose the problem you’re experiencing. In most cases, another window will open where you’ll be asked to provide a comment regarding the issue you experienced, and you’ll be released from the test. Your problem report will be sent to our Support Team and the customer for the test will also be notified.
If the customer’s website does not automatically open, click the menu button, then navigate to The website or app did not open. You can either click the URL provided or copy and paste it into your browser.
I’ve finished my test. Now what?
Once you’ve completed the final task of your test, you will see a task that asks for “Any final thoughts?” This is an opportunity to recap your thoughts, summarize what you have said, and share any last remarks. Then click “Stop Recording” to end your recording and start the uploading process.
Once you submit your written answers, the upload window will appear. Be careful not to close this window before being prompted to do so, or you may lose your video. When your video has successfully uploaded, you will see a message that says it is safe to close the uploading window and return to your dashboard.
