Working Title: Traveling Italy Off the Beaten Path - The Tourist's Guide to Experiencing the Country Like a Local.

Report Author: Jessica E. Gonzales, jessica.e.gonzales@gmail.com

Date: December 2, 2009

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Brief Profile of Users

Four people participated in the Alpha User Test. Three of the four had traveled abroad before; two of which had traveled to Europe. The fourth participant has never traveled outside the U.S., but plans to do so. All participants are young professionals in their field, and look to travel for leisure and recreation.

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Think Aloud Task

Determine where the "Tips" are on the webpage, and if this is a helpful addition to the webpage. Determine where the "Coummnity Outlines" are on the webpage. Determine if the main tabs interfere or help the other submenus.

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Summary of Think Aloud

Participants were able to find the "Tips," but they appeared to be somewhat hidden on the bottom of the webpage. The "Community Outlines" submenue seemed out of place, as it should have its own main menu tab. All main menu tabs contained helpful information, and each menu added value to users' navigation.

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Summary of Posttest Interview

All users had a difficult time reading the header on the homepage, as the current image overrides some of the words. I agree, and plan to change the current image and font style/color.

Users found the copy on the homepage to be very clear and helpful in discerning the sites' purpose and advantageous use.

One user suggested that a multimedia photo slideshow should be limited to the "Community Outlines" section, rather than the home page, to avoid reposting duplicate images.

All users found the "Tips" to be lost on the webpage, and suggested to sticking to the "Pro Advice" main tab/page to list all tips.

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Findings to be Implemented

Given the valuable feedback provided, I will implement the following:

• Change the header font style/color, and main image
• Incorporate photo slideshows on the "Community Outline" section
• Move "Community Outline" from a submenu to a main menu tab
• Delete the "Tips" on the bottom of the site
• Implement a "Checklist" feature/form to help users plan for their trip

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Findings that will not be Implemented

• I'm not completely sure about deleting the photo slideshow from the homepage. I may still incorporate a photo slideshow, or some other type of visual aid to help better illustrate the copy on the homepage.