The outputs of research are findings, recommendations and new models.

Types

• Field studies: Observation from natural surroundings
  • W: Be careful of location bias (pitfall: conducting studies in proximity)
• Diary studies: Participants log their thoughts
  • W: Be committed so that users do not drop out from the study
• User interviews
  • W: Optimism in interviews
• Concept test: “Thinking out loud” as one uses a prototype
  • W: Some products are hard to test with fake data i.e. an email app
• Participatory design: Co-make the solution
  • W: Do not expect that the customer will design a solution for you. Watch out for thought process—could be very idealistic, constraints are ignored
• Card sorting: Grouping
  • W: Limit number of cards to not overwhelm
• Beta program: Early opt-in access
  • W: Don’t do too soon so obvious bugs are gone and you will only get important feedback