I think this could be a valuable service, but $99/test seems quite high (compared to similar services targeting desktop instead mobile users). At $500 to run Nielsen's recommended 5 person test, running my own tests starts to look like a viable substitute for your service (considering I'm likely to want to run more than one round of tests).
I think this is true at both ends of the scale: Startups will compare this cost against guerrilla testing techniques (e.g., sourcing testers on fiverr, asking people on the street, or inviting them into a lab for a hour for a small reward). Large firms will compare the value of this service to hiring a more high-touch UX firm (or building this competency internally) that does much more than record test sessions.
For what it's worth, here are some questions I have as a potential buyer:
* How long are the test sessions in general?
* How are the tests "facilitated", or more to the point, what happens if testers don't understand the task instructions or can't get the app to run?
* How are you sourcing testers? Can you quantify their demographics? Can you provide testers that meet specific demographic profiles?
Thanks for the feedback @spokey. What would you consider a sweetspot price-point for you at the 5 person test? We discount down the more users you add to the test: 3 at $249 and 5 at $399.
As for your questions:
1) Generally 10-15 minutes depending on the tasks assigned.
2) We facilitate the tests however we try to have the process be as natural as possible. One thing we learned is that it can be incredibly helpful to sit down a new user in front of the app. Things we assume as developers aren't always obvious to the average person. You'll see in the recording the steps a normal user would take so you as a developer can fix the process.
3) For the time being we are picking the demographic for the buyer to keep it simple. We'll be adding the ability to choose specific demographics later as demanded.
I think this is true at both ends of the scale: Startups will compare this cost against guerrilla testing techniques (e.g., sourcing testers on fiverr, asking people on the street, or inviting them into a lab for a hour for a small reward). Large firms will compare the value of this service to hiring a more high-touch UX firm (or building this competency internally) that does much more than record test sessions.
For what it's worth, here are some questions I have as a potential buyer:
* How long are the test sessions in general?
* How are the tests "facilitated", or more to the point, what happens if testers don't understand the task instructions or can't get the app to run?
* How are you sourcing testers? Can you quantify their demographics? Can you provide testers that meet specific demographic profiles?