I’ve recently been investigating ways to freelance and make an extra bit of cash before and after my trip, and I came across Usertesting.com.
The concept is actually pretty simple — apps and websites frequently need human testers to try out their functions and features before they launch or update. Usertesting.com connects these companies with individuals who are able to complete the tests.
When you sign into Usertesting.com you’re presented with a panel that allows you to see what open tests are available. Most tests have a screener associated, which is essentially a few questions to determine if you’re the target audience for the test. If you qualify, you’re then taken to the testing screen to begin!
When you’re completing a test, which I’ve done both via my android phone and windows laptop, you’re required to have usertesting’s screen capture software installed so that the company you’re testing for can visually follow what you’re doing. Additionally, you’re instructed to speak your thoughts aloud so the company can also get a good idea of what you’re thinking during the testing period. The usertesting app will prompt you with questions and tasks to complete, and they say that most tests will take you around 10 minutes. In the 3 that I’ve completed so far, I would definitely say that 10 is about the average, with one a few minutes longer, one right on the mark, and one a bit shorter. After you complete the test, if you’re on a desktop you submit the video, and if you’re on your mobile device, you’ll upload your video to the server.
So, three tests?
Yes. It’s actually sometimes a bit difficult to qualify for the tests, as they tend to come up, at least in my experience, around 3-5am EST. Therefore when I log on, many of them are gone or likely don’t need my demographic any longer. However, I’ve managed to qualify for 4 so far… 3 that I’ve completed and one that’s a scheduled test, that’s coming up next week. The three that I’ve already completed were immediate tests with the prompts, the ones I’ve described previously. The fourth is an app test and from what I’m able to disclose, they essentially want a big group of testers all at the same time, trying the same things. So we’re all pre-qualified and we’ll be able to test all during the same time period.
Each test from that standard type, pending approval from the company, is worth $10 USD. This $10 is released 7 days after the completion of the test, and I’ve already received payment for two of mine. The funds are paid directly into your PayPal account. For the scheduled ones, or some others that specifically state it in the dashboard, may reward their testers with higher rates of compensation. I haven’t completed my more advanced test, but you know I’ll be reviewing it as soon as I can!
So the conclusion here… what is it?
- Yes, Usertesting.com is completely legitimate and you can “make money” for sure!
- I’m not really sure you can make a living or even regular income via Usertesting.com because you can’t predict if you’ll qualify for the companies looking for testers.
- Usertesting.com is actually REALLY fun. I’ve enjoyed all 3 tests I’ve done so far and I’ve found I really enjoy the idea of helping companies make their sites and apps more user friendly.
Alright, get along then and try it out! If you already use it, I’d love to hear from you! What are your experiences? Do you love it or hate it? Let’s chat!
