Conducting user testing is essential to guarantee a product's usability and enhance the overall user experience. However, in scenarios like startups or small businesses, budget constraints can make it seem like an unaffordable luxury to dedicate time and resources to usability testing. Yet, in these exact situations, it becomes even more important to prioritize user testing and make the most of the limited resources available.

So, what can you do when "there's no budget"?

Let’s go in order.

What is User Testing?

User Testing, also known as Usability Testing or UX Testing, is a process used to evaluate the effectiveness of interfaces and functions of a website, app, product or service. This is done by employing real users who perform specific tasks, experiencing real-life usage conditions. To ensure accurate results, it is important that testers do not receive overly precise instructions and are free to interact with the platform in a natural way, thus evaluating the product's ease of accessibility.

Unfortunately, many companies, eager to launch quickly, often skip this crucial step, citing a lack of time.

But let’s be clear:

Does it take less time to make changes during the design phase or to modify the code of a product that has already been released?

The right answer is the first—both in terms of time and cost.

Therefore, it’s essential that a product is well-validated by end-users before moving into development.

What if I Have a Limited Budget?

It’s true that user testing requires an investment, and for small businesses or startups, this expense can be significant. However, there are always ways to work around budget constraints.

Share the Culture of Testing

The first step—though it may seem obvious—is to convince decision-makers of the importance of user testing. While it does require time and money, explain how this investment will pay off in the medium and long term. It helps dispel the myth of "looks good = works well."

Good user testing can save money in the long run by creating a user-friendly experience that converts more users with confidence. Only by testing with real users can you identify what works and what doesn’t.

Convincing stakeholders of these benefits is already a step forward!

Now, let’s explore cost-effective alternatives for user testing that save both time and money.

1. Go Remote

Traditional user testing involves a lot of time and resources, from finding suitable users to compensating them for their participation. But remote testing offers a quicker and more affordable solution.

Platforms like Maze allow you to upload your prototype directly from design tools like Figma, set up tasks for users, and generate a test link. You can then share this link with anyone, and receive real-time results complete with analytics and statistics.

The best part? Many of these online platforms offer free plans that provide the core functionality you need without requiring you to upgrade to a paid version.

"But how do I know if the users are my exact target audience?"

While you can't be completely sure, remember that some testing, even if imperfect, is better than no testing at all. A helpful tip is to share the test with online communities that match your target demographic. Just be prepared to do some data screening to get reliable results.

2. Guerrilla Testing

If you’re not sold on remote testing, you can try guerrilla testing—a more hands-on, DIY approach.

Guerrilla testing is a casual, in-person testing method that requires no formal recruitment. You can conduct it anywhere: on the street, at universities, in malls. You simply ask people to complete tasks using your product, observing their interactions and gathering feedback.

This approach allows you to engage users naturally, test in real-time, and gather immediate results. Plus, you can get creative with rewards, like offering a free coffee in exchange for their time.

Regardless of the method you choose, it’s crucial to keep in mind who your users are and what their goals will be when using your product. Plan ahead by setting a target number of responses and a timeline for gathering results.

The simpler your testing goals, the more meaningful and actionable your feedback will be.

Ready to Try User Testing on a Budget?

Have we convinced you to propose user testing to even the most budget-conscious clients?

It’s not always easy, but with these strategies, we’re confident you can make it work—even when the budget is tight!