When is a summative usability test generally conducted?

A summative usability test is conducted after the design is completed to evaluate its effectiveness and efficiency in real-world scenarios. This type of testing aims to assess whether the final design meets the predetermined usability goals and user requirements.

The purpose of summative usability testing is to gather measurable data that can be used to determine the success of the design and identify any final usability issues before the product is launched. By conducting this type of testing after the design is finalized, researchers can evaluate how users interact with the fully implemented system, ensuring that it performs well under conditions similar to those in which end-users will actually use the product.

In contrast, using the early design phase, after initial concepts are sketched, or during brainstorming sessions typically relates to formative usability testing. These stages focus on gathering insights to improve the design iteratively rather than measuring the design's overall effectiveness as a final product.