First Click Testing Guide

Just as the name suggests, First Click Testing is a usability testing technique that focuses on the initial interaction users have with a website, application, or interface. It aims to evaluate the efficiency and intuitiveness of the design by honing in on that pivotal first click. This methodology is rooted in the understanding that the first interaction often sets the tone for the entire user experience.

How does it work?

1. Design the study and frame the task as you would similar to a usability test. Outline the task as how your user would typically use your product without giving away too much information that could bias the participants.
2. Create follow-up questions to ask for qualitative feedback particularly around the interaction that you intend the users to have.
3. Observe and record data, such as mouse clicks, mouse movements, and time, on how participants interact.
4. Analyze results and try to understand how intuitive the first click was. Does the correct first click necessarily lead to the ideal task success path? What are potential confusion that get in the way? Hubble’s unmoderated study module will automatically generate heat maps and click filters to facilitate your data analysis process.

Why does it matter?

No matter how rich information or valuable product your application offers, users would not be able to land on the relevant web page if the ease of navigation is impossible. First impressions in websites are just as important as they would in a real life. According to research, "if the user's first click was correct, the chances of getting the overall scenario correct was .87." Making the correct first click affects the overall task success rate—Clicking on the right button led to an overall 87% task success rate. On the other hand, clicking on the incorrect button resulted in 46% task success rate.

• The first click reflects users’ expectations and assumptions about the interface. Understanding these initial reactions will provide insights into whether the design aligns with user mental models.
• Optimize user paths to create an efficient interface that guide users to their goals swiftly. Analyzing the first click could help diagnose potential hurdles or friction points that could impede the experience.

What are the benefits of running first click tests?

• The results and sense making aspect are straightforward and fairly easy. The methodology provides tangible, visual data that informs design decisions. It's a practical, evidence-based approach to refining user interfaces. Even if participants get the wrong first click, follow-up qualitative questions can suggest improvements.
• Begin with the first click tests to optimize the overall user paths. What is intuitive for product teams could not be necessarily intuitive for the end users. As it is simple to set up, it helps detect potential usability issues early on in the development process.

To learn more, see related articles:

• Making sense of prototype task results in an unmoderated study 
• How do I filter clicks on Figma prototype results?