UserTesting

What Is UserTesting?

UsertTesting.com is a crowdtesting platform focused on usability testing. Companies can use the platform to get feedback on their websites, apps, prototypes, and more, while contributors (aka testers) can use it to make money by participating in usability tests. Founded in 2007, the platform has grown to become one of the largest and most well-known in the crowdtesting space.

Who Is UserTesting For?

UserTesting is for those looking to conduct user tests and/or those looking to get paid to participate in them. If you're the former, the platform offers a wide range of tools and assistance to help you get your test done right. If you're the latter, UserTesting can provide a nice side income -- but, keep in mind that it won't replace a full-time job.

How Does UserTesting Work?

There are 2 types of users on UserTesting: Contributors and Customers.

Here's how UserTesting works for each of those user types:

For Contributors

UserTesting contributors (i.e. testers) can earn money by participating in usability tests and live research interviews. Upon completion of a test, payments are automatically sent within 7 days.

Getting started:

To become a UserTesting participant, head over to the UserTesting website and look for the "get paid to test" link. From there, you'll need to submit your email and take a practice test.

The practice test will determine if you're accepted for real paid tests, so take it seriously. You may not get a chance to re-apply. If approved, you'll start receiving paid tests on your dashboard.

Earning money:

There are two main methods of testing conducted on UserTesting.com:

1. Live conversation tests. These involve connecting with a researcher face-to-face. They may ask you to test a website, app, or similar while live, or they may simply ask you questions.
2. Unmoderated tests. These are done by yourself and involve recording your screen, voice, and (sometimes) face while going through a test. UserTesting provides its own software to do the recording, but you need to have the equipment.
3. Diary studies. These can contain any of the above test methods, but instead of being a one-off sort of deal, they involve multiple tests/activities over a number of days.

With all of these test methods, you'll come across multiple different types of tests. Most involve using a website or app while following a specific set of tasks and speaking your thoughts out loud. Very rarely, you may be asked to test physical products as well, which will be shipped to your house.

Before you take a test, you'll be able to see its estimated length, how much it pays, and which device it needs to be conducted on. You'll then need to take a short screener (usually a few multiple-choice questions) to see if you qualify for the test. If you do qualify, you can start the test right away (if it's unmoderated) or get your live interview time and date set up.

Completed tests typically pay anywhere from $4-$120 each depending on their complexity and length.

After you complete a test, you may also receive a rating (out of 5) from the client. Users with lower ratings will have fewer future test opportunities, so be as helpful as possible during every test you take, and don't lie to qualify. If you submit an extremely poorly done test, your payment may be canceled, but this is rare.

Cashing out:

Once you have at least $0.01 in your earnings balance, you can cash out via PayPal. Payouts typically take 7 days to be sent out.

Tip: Read our UserTesting Earning Guide to learn more about making money on the platform.

For Customers

UserTesting customers can use the platform not only to create and conduct usability tests but also to learn why these tests are valuable and how best to go about designing and deploying them.

Getting started:

If you're looking to test a website, app, prototype, or something else, UserTesting offers a free trial for new customers and they make it easy to get started. All you have to do is head over to the platform's website and look for the "Request trial" link. From there, you'll need to provide your full name, job title, phone number, and email. Then, someone from UserTesting will reach out directly.

Creating and deploying tests:

When you're ready to set up a test, you can use UserTesting's on-site tools to get something created in a few minutes, or you can get help from their research team for more complex studies. For a really quick setup, you can use one of their pre-made templates.

Tests can be self-guided or live interview style and can include all sorts of specific tasks and questions. The platform offers quite a lot of customization.

When you're ready to distribute your test, you can either bring in your own audience or you can target UserTesting contributors from specific demographics.

Once your test is distributed, you'll start receiving results in as little as an hour. You can then watch the feedback, annotate it, and share it with colleagues if needed. If you're unsatisfied with a test that you receive, you can request to have it replaced with a new one at no extra cost.