What benefit is there from being next to the user vs. being behind the one-way mirror?
The one-way mirror (or located in another room is another common configuration with our usability lab) is valuable because it gives moderators space to log notes or observe, comment and do their own thinking out loud! On the flip side, the benefit of sitting chair side is increased intimacy or “bedside manner”. It will depend on what kind of test and what type of user you are dealing with. When I first started moderating usability tests over ten years ago, I used to almost always sit next to the user. I used to think it added better moderator observation. The more usability testing I conducted, the more I found it awkward to note take and or observe so close to the user. These days I find it easier to moderate using our usability lab’s intercom system and or create a link with walkie-talkies, or a conference call bridge. Sometimes if I feel the user is anxious, I will sit chair-side. The bottom line, is there is no rule, it is up to you and depends on what usability lab set up you have
