Research – end of cycle (usability)

29 July 2020

Previous research #

We know that there are specific activities providers undertake when a recruitment cycle is closing. We have already run a round of research to understand the needs behind:

• ending a recruitment cycle
• handling “edge case” applications
• planning a new cycle
• data and reporting to DfE

See the previous entry for this research.

Context #

This round of research focused on the usability of designs around:

• switching cycles
• retrospectively marking conditions as met for applications from the previous cycle
• deferring an application
• confirming deferrals

We also looked at the new application list task design and the activity log

Approach #

One to one, remote, moderated, usability testing

See the discussion guide for more detail

Who we researched with #

Provider users, typically ITT administrators or ITT Directors from:

• 2 SCITTs
• 3 Schools Direct

Analysis #

See the Miro board analysis

New user needs identified #

See the provider user needs Trello board

• Tracking conditions

  • Track conditions across candidates

• Deferrals

  • need candidate to accept deferred offer
  • need to confirm a deferred offer at the start of the new cycle
  • need to defer an applicant at the point of offer

Findings report #

See the end of cycle research full report

• switching cycles and retrospectively marking conditions as met
• deferring offers
• confirmations of deferrals
• task view and activity log
• other prototype feedback

Actions #

See the action log