Moderator script

Set expectations, capture consent, and prompt without leading.

Intro — read aloud

"Thanks for joining. We're testing the prototype, not you — there are no wrong answers, and anything you find confusing is useful to us. I'll give you a few tasks; please share your screen and think out loud as you go, telling me what you're looking at and expecting."

Consent — read aloud, wait for a clear yes

"This session is being transcribed by Teams so we can capture your feedback accurately. The transcript is used only for improving the product and isn't shared outside the project team. Are you happy to continue on that basis?"

Record the yes — the transcript timestamp covers it. Don't proceed without it, especially for external participants.

During tasks — think-aloud prompts (use sparingly, don't lead)

"What are you expecting to happen here?"
"What would you do next?"
"Tell me what you're thinking."
(If they go quiet) "What's going through your mind right now?"
(Never) "It's the button on the right" — let them struggle; the struggle is the data.

Wrap-up

"That's the tasks done. I'll drop a short feedback form in the chat now — four quick questions, takes a minute. Then anything else you'd change is welcome."