Remote usability testing allows you to conduct user research with participants in their natural environment by employing screen-sharing software or online remote usability vendor services. In general, tests should be about 15–30 minutes long made up of about 3-5 tasks. Remote usability tests can be “Moderated” in the same manner you would for an in-person lab test or, “Un-moderated” where participants complete the tasks independently.

• When to Consider Remote Testing
  There are certain conditions when it makes sense to consider remote usability testing. Some of those conditions include:
• Timelines might prevent in-person testing due to scheduling issues
• The target audience/participants are geographically dispersed making travel for them or the experimenters difficult
• The participants need to use a particular work machine due to software or security requirements
• The participants have accessibility issues which require that they use their own software or equipment
• You can potentially run multiple tests at once

Although this method is flexible, as with any test, you must consider the benefits and cost of this methodology.