Prototype testing an application flow with 5 start-ups

Is the online application flow self-explanatory, user-friendly and smooth? The Amsterdam Municipality Initiative " Innovation Partners" wanted to evaluate and improve their new online tool for applying for a public tender. Their main target group: Start-up companies.

Although the form's interface was perceived as clear and comprehensive, using 5hellos, they identified some crucial factors for the success of the tool.

A lively discussion

Based on a 2-minute survey that was filled in by the 5 innovators before the conversation, Lea led the session to find out how they perceived the tool. What followed was a lively discussion.

"Helping the municipality of Amsterdam with feedback on a new, public tender tool was great. It's often a daunting process, so good to have our opinions included."

Actionable recommendations

Although the interface was deemed clear and comprehensive, the panelists indicated that the tool would benefit from extra attention to the quality and presentation of the information.

The insights from the discussion were summarized in a compact report with actionable recommendations.

For example:

• Add overview and illustrations of required inputs. This way a company can understand if the tender is relevant for them. “I want to understand if I have to submit a product that is all worked out, or that I can also submit an idea or concept."
• Extend the Q&A section. This allows for knowledge sharing in application stage. “When the application process opens, we want to have 1 or 2 weeks to ask all our questions about the applications. Those questions then can be published, so that others can read them.”
• Clarify 'auto save'. Giving the users control of their inputs. “It is so crucial when filling in a long form. I want some kind of clear and big description that I am able to close the browser and come back again."‍

Want to find out more on how 5hellos can help improve the usability of your work? Let's talk.