Modified contextual design as a field evaluation method

Downstream utility is a critical success factor for usability evaluation methods, in terms of the extent to which they can deliver value. In this paper we argue that field methods can significantly improve downstream utility through the added value they provide in terms of the range of usability problems they uncover and the contextual information they yield on user difficulties and their causal explanations. By way of an example we describe our experience of applying an adaptation of Rapid Contextual Design called Rapid Contextual Evaluation in a small scale field evaluation of a course administration system.