User testing with artificial intelligence – benefits compared to traditional testing


User testing done with artificial intelligence differs from traditional user testing based on the model of the university world in several key ways, especially in the speed, scalability, data analysis and flexibility of testing.

Speed ​​and efficiency

User testing done with artificial intelligence can take place in real time and automatically, which results in results much faster than in traditional tests. For example, artificial intelligence can simulate thousands of user paths quickly and provide feedback immediately.

In traditional user testing, such as university studies, the tests are often conducted under controlled conditions and with a limited number of participants, which can take considerably more time. The process is more manual and often requires the researcher’s physical presence and manual data analysis.

Data analysis and processing

Artificial intelligence can analyze large amounts of data efficiently and find deep behavioral patterns or problem areas that would be difficult for a human analyst to detect. Algorithms can, for example, identify user navigation problems or challenges that are not always noticed in traditional testing.

In university research, data analysis is often human-centered and based on manual methods in which researchers analyze users’ answers, actions and movements. This can be slow and more prone to human error or subjective interpretation.

Scale and flexibility of testing

Artificial intelligence testing scales well for large groups of participants. Artificial intelligence can be used to perform large-scale tests even in complex usage situations, where a lot of user feedback can be obtained quickly. It can also work globally, taking into account the activities of different users in different environments.

Traditional user tests at universities are usually conducted with a smaller number of participants, which can limit the test’s representativeness and general validity. They are also often locally organized, which limits the variety of user profiles and testing environments.

Objectivity and accuracy of results

Artificial intelligence-based testing is objective, as it analyzes purely based on data and is not susceptible to the researcher’s own biases or interpretations. This can increase the accuracy and reliability of tests, especially when you want to reduce subjective human errors.

In university research, user testing is often based on qualitative methods such as interviews, observation and behavioral patterns, which may be subject to subjective interpretation by the researcher.

Usability and continuous testing

Artificial intelligence can be used for a continuous testing process, where a product or service is tested and optimized throughout its life cycle. For example, in software, artificial intelligence can continuously monitor user data and automatically identify problems or areas for improvement.

The university model is often one-off or occurs at certain stages, such as during the development of a prototype. In a university environment, there are rarely resources or flexibility for continuous iterative testing.

Simulated vs. real users

Artificial intelligence-based tests can make use of simulated users, i.e. artificial intelligence models can simulate the actions of users in a virtual environment. This can speed up and make early stage testing more efficient.

Traditional university testing is usually based on real users who are tested in a real or simulated environment. While this can provide more in-depth and user-specific feedback, it takes more time and resources.

Cost effectiveness

AI-based user testing can be significantly more cost-effective because it automates many processes and can minimize the need for human labor. Tests can be done in a scalable manner without requiring human supervision for each test.

In traditional testing, especially in academia, the processes are often more manual and may require more resources such as facilities, equipment and personnel. This makes it more expensive and slower.

Opportunities for predictive analysis created by artificial intelligence

Artificial intelligence can be used to predict user behavior by analyzing large amounts of data and making predictive conclusions about how users will act in certain situations. This enables future planning and optimization without continuous testing.

In the traditional model, such predictive analysis is not possible in the same way. Research mainly focuses on current behavior and its analysis.

 

User testing done with artificial intelligence offers speed, scalability and objectivity, which are not always possible in traditional university user tests. A traditional test can provide a deeper qualitative understanding of users, but AI brings efficiency and scale that are well-suited to modern product and service development.



Janne Gylling
Creative Director • janne@jannegylling.fi