Overview
Convertor plug-ins are used for import of data sets into the IVE tool. There are two categories of convertor plug-ins, convertor plug-ins for usability test context models and convertor plug-ins for recorded data sets.
For each type of data set and for each type of submodel of usability test context model, a dedicated convertor plug-in is used. The convertor loads the input (data set or submodel of UTCM) and stores it into the internal database in structure described in chapter 3. In case of data set convertor plug-in, interconnection with submodel of usability test context model is performed during import. This interconnection can be automatic or semi-automatic, depending on the implementation of convertor plug-in.
Data set convertor plug-ins were developed with respect to the format of data sets recorded by logging tools used within usability test use cases. Audio/video recording convertor plug-in was developed for files in standard audio/video formats. Remaining data source types were recorded into a generic XML log format. This format represents log records as a set of key-value pairs, which represent particular parameters of each data set type (e.g. parameters of mouse move event) recorded during the usability test. Each record in the log contains timestamps that represents temporal occurrence of an event and reference to particular submodel of usability test context model (in this case state of the application in parameter segment).
Dialog model
Dialog model convertor plug-in is designed for loading of dialog model into IVE application. Dialog model represents structure of the application, its states and transitions between states.
Example of the dialog model for application NaviTerier - dialog-model.xml.
Task model CTT XML
Task model CTT XML convertor plug-in is designed for loading of the task model stored as CTT XML files. Task model represents structure of the application tasks.
Example of the task model for application Second Life - Rotate the box.
Environment model - 2D segments
2D segment environment model represents environment divided into interconnected segments. Each segment represents area, where the user can move. Typically, the 2D segment model is used for visualization of indoor setups, where direct user position is not known.
Example of the 2D segments model - description of building.
Environment model - 3D CHIL
3D model of environment model is suitable for 3D visualization of test environment. Currently, the CHIL project file structure is used - see example bellow.
Example of the 3D model - Room.
Observation model
Observation model represents hierarchical structure of observation categories. These categories are used fot clustering of data sets and observed usability problems.
Example of the observation model - default set of categories.
Generic XML log
Generic XML log is format of log files that can be imported into the IVE tool. The convertor plug-in loads all the attributes as key-value pairs.
Example of the log for application NaviTerier - generic-log.xml.
XLS observer notes
XLS observer notes represent log created by the usability practitioner (observer) during observation of usability test.
Example of the XLS observer notes - example of notes (texts in Czech).
Externalization
Externalization is log of data collected by usability practitioner during the usability test in mobile environment. Goal of the externalization is to collect interactions of user with environment and comparison with post-test debriefing. This is typically used for tests with blind users.
Example of the externalization file - navigation of blind users (texts in Czech).