Paper Based Video Prototyping : A study of methods for low fidelity video prototypes in usability testing

Abstract: In the field of Human Computer Interaction (HCI), low fidelity prototypes are a well-established method with solidly defined advantages and disadvantages. Further development of different methods within this field is constantly evolving, and this paper describes the concept of one of these methods, low fidelity video prototypes. It gives a brief introduction to low fidelity video prototyping methods, advantages and disadvantages. The video prototype is compared to paper prototyping, which lies closest to it in the low-fi family. I explain my methods for developing a paper prototype, a video prototype based on this prototype, the testing of both prototypes, and the results of these tests. Video prototyping is more effective than paper prototyping in certain aspects because the tests themselves demand less people, and less time to walk through the test. It is easy to go through the task in the users own pace. It is a useful method on its own, and can also be effective as a complement to other low-fi prototypes. They are easier to test on larger groups and to share over distance. It is easy to produce, edit and refine video prototypes with modern animating tools.