Contextual testing in the mobile phone design process; A case study

The case study with a Multinational Mobile phone manufacturer presented in this paper investigates the different roles in-context testing with users plays within a design process, and highlights some of the challenges faced implementing contextual approaches. This case study suggests that to add maximum value to the design process, contextual methods should be implemented early in the design process, using rapid and flexible interactive prototyping tools that support a 'toolbox' approach to usability evaluation.