Chapter 3: User Research Methods
Chapter 3 of 15
Chapter 3: User Research Methods
3.1 Research Techniques
Conduct effective user research to understand user needs and behaviors.
Qualitative Research:
- User Interviews: One-on-one conversations
- Focus Groups: Group discussions
- Contextual Inquiry: Observe users in their environment
- Ethnographic Studies: Deep cultural understanding
Quantitative Research:
- Surveys: Large-scale data collection
- Analytics: Behavioral data analysis
- A/B Testing: Compare design variations
- Card Sorting: Information architecture research
3.2 User Interviews
Conduct effective user interviews to gather insights.
Interview Best Practices:
- Prepare open-ended questions
- Listen actively and avoid leading questions
- Create comfortable environment
- Record sessions (with permission)
- Take detailed notes
3.3 Surveys and Questionnaires
Use surveys to gather quantitative data from larger user groups.
- Keep surveys short and focused
- Use clear, simple language
- Avoid leading or biased questions
- Include demographic questions
- Test survey before distribution
3.4 Observational Research
Observe users in their natural environment to understand real behaviors.
- Contextual inquiry sessions
- Field studies and ethnographic research
- Task analysis and workflow observation
- Behavioral pattern identification