CapCut Usability Testing Evaluating AI-Powered Video Editing Tools
Understanding User Experience and Improving Workflow Efficiency
Background
CapCut, an AI-powered video editing platform, provides tools for creators at various skill levels—from novices to professionals. This usability study aimed to evaluate the usability, functionality, and overall user experience of CapCut’s AI Magic Tools and interface.
Our research sought to identify usability barriers, cognitive load issues, and user pain points across three different user groups (novice, intermediate, and expert).
User Research: Secondary Desk Research, Competitive Analysis, User Interviews
Moderator: Usability Testing, In-Depth Interview, Cognitive Walkthrough with Participants
Reporting & Documentation: Created questionnaires, test protocol, scripts, and usability report with key findings and insights
The Vision
Our vision was to help improve CapCut’s usability to expand customer growth by providing profitable consumer insights.
Methodology
Triangulation Method:
Usability Testing:
Task-based interaction with CapCut’s editing tools
Card Sorting:
Evaluating feature categorization and user mental models
Key Objectives
Gather quantifiable metrics to assess the overall user friendliness & effectiveness of CapCut’s tools
Identify current user challenges and pain points through qualitative methods
Data was collected via screen recordings, error rate tracking, and post-test and post-task questionnaires at a controlled testing facility.
Quantitative Insights
Task Completion Difficulty (Scale of 1-10):
🚨 Novice Users: 3/10 – Found AI tools overwhelming
🚨 Intermediate Users: 4/10 – Struggled with navigation but adapted
🚨 Expert Users: 3/10 – Expected more advanced customization
User Satisfaction Score (Scale of 1-10):
🚨 Novice Users: 6.5/10 – Needed better onboarding
🚨 Intermediate Users: 8.5/10 – Appreciated AI-powered efficiency
🚨 Expert Users: 9/10 – Liked the versatility but wanted more customization
Quantitative & Qualitative Findings
Qualitative Insights – User Pain Points
🚨 For Novice Users: Steep learning curve, icons lacked clarity, confusing onboarding
🚨 For Intermediate Users: Too many UI elements on the home screen, inconsistent workflows
🚨 For Expert Users: AI tools were too simplified; preferred manual control
Card Sorting Analysis
🟢 Users preferred a feature hierarchy based on task goals rather than tool-based navigation
🔴 Unclear icons led to longer learning times for novice users
Key Takeaways
Weaknesses
CapCut may have a steep learning curve or lack intuitive features for beginners and novice users.
Lack of User Guidance: Novice users might feel overwhelmed or lost due to insufficient tutorials or guidance within the platform.
New Icons: Lack of understanding what certain icons meant
Strengths
Integration with other applications (TikTok and Instagram).
Versatility: CapCut offers a wide range of editing tools and effects, catering to the needs of both intermediate and expert users.
Quick Summary
Human Factors Experiment Case Study:
Evaluating the Effects of Auditory Stimuli on Task Performance
Exploring Cognitive Performance in Varied Sound Environments
Research Motivation
To identify optimal auditory conditions that could enhance learning outcomes, productivity, and well-being in various settings.
Methodology
A Within-Subjects Design was used.
Each participant was exposed to three auditory conditions:
Data Analysis & Testing Equipment
IBM SPSS
PEBL (Psychology Experiment Building Language)
Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) was used to compare task accuracy and response times across the different audio settings
Participants played the Oddball task on PEBL
Results
P-Value > 0.05 alpha level
No evidence to suggest the effect of auditory condition on accuracy of task and reaction time.
Learning Outcomes
Discussion:
This research can inform the design of more optimal work environments or digital platforms that require high levels of concentration and cognitive function.
Implications
The insights could help design better auditory cues or background settings in software and applications, enhancing user engagement and productivity.
Classical Music
No Sound
Design Recommendations
Improve Onboarding: Implement interactive walkthroughs and contextual tooltips.
Revamp Navigation: Shift from a tool-based to a goal-based UI structure.
Enhance AI Customization: Provide expert users with manual override options in AI editing tools.
Ambient
Post-Task Interviews:
Capturing qualitative feedback on usability and frustrations
Gain in-depth knowledge of user trends and desires of features in video editing platform