Determining the Need for Testing

The purpose of this study is to gather data about how people use review sites, in order to improve the overall experience. In this case study completed for Kent State University’s Usability II class, Common Sense Media was selected as my review site of choice.  

THE PROBLEM

As a parent, I was introduced to the Common Sense Media website while walking the aisles of Barnes and Noble with my daughter (pre-pandemic). I was unfamiliar with the titles she was reviewing in the fantasy fiction section, and an employee saw me reading the book jackets feverishly and pointed me to this website.  

Fast-forward to my Usability II class, we were tasked with selecting a review site. Since I had used this site, in limited capacity, I thought the site would be a solid candidate for usability testing, since this review site’s results contribute to the greater good and safety of children.

Common Sense Media’s website states that it “rates movies, TV shows, books, and more so parents can feel good about the entertainment choices they make for their kids.” 

INSERT PANDEMIC DIGITAL CONSUMPTION

In a world that was increasing its technology usage, by the second, well before the pandemic catapulted digital consumption, it is important for parents to know what their children are reading, watching, hearing and playing for school or pleasure. 

According to research conducted in July 2020 by the Pew Research Center, more than nine-in-ten parents say parents have a lot of responsibility in protecting children from inappropriate online content.

Parenting sites and blogs resonate across multiple educational backgrounds as a resource utilized by parents for advice, according to the Pew Research Center. The efficiency of the search results from websites such as Common Sense Media impact a broad audience of parents ranging from high school or less to college plus.

navigatiNG THE DIGITAL LANDSCAPE

• The Common Sense Media website is structured to provide parents with “reviews and advice to help them navigate the digital world with their kids.” It was created to take the guesswork out of digital consumption uncertainties.

• This usability case study was conducted (remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic) to identify if the site was performing as intended or if improvements were needed, and, if so, where.