Remote usability tests are popular because they often require less time and money than in-person studies. There are two types of remote usability testing: moderated and unmoderated.

Remote moderated usability tests work very similarly to in-person studies. The facilitator still interacts with the participant and asks her to perform tasks. However, the facilitator and participant are in different physical locations. Usually, moderated tests can be performed using screen-sharing software like Skype or GoToMeeting.

Remote unmoderated remote usability tests do not have the same facilitator–participant interaction as an in-person or moderated tests. The researcher uses a dedicated online remote-testing tool to set up written tasks for the participant. Then, the participant completes those tasks alone on her own time. The testing tool delivers the task instructions and any followup questions. After the participant completes her test, the researcher receives a recording of the session, along with metrics like task success.