Recording and observation ethics

Recording methods in user testing range from simple screen capture to eye tracking, facial recognition, and biometric monitoring. Each method requires separate, explicit consent because participants may feel comfortable with screen recording but uncomfortable having their face or emotional reactions analyzed.

Keep in mind that observer presence changes participant behavior whether observers watch through one-way mirrors, video feeds, or sit quietly in the room. Participants deserve to know who's watching, why they're watching, and whether observers include stakeholders who might recognize them. Internal testing with company employees creates special concerns when observers might be their colleagues or managers, potentially affecting honest feedback about workplace tools.

Retention policies for recordings determine long-term privacy risks. Video files containing faces, voices, and personal information become more sensitive over time as facial recognition technology advances and data breaches become more sophisticated. Ethical teams specify exactly how long recordings will be kept, who can access them, where they're stored, and when they'll be permanently deleted rather than leaving these decisions vague or indefinite.