Research Methods

Exercise: Conduct a User Interview and Summarize Findings

Step 1: Define Your Objectives

What do you want to learn?

Examples:

• What challenges do users face when shopping online?

• How do users currently solve a specific problem?

Create clear research goals:

• Understand user preferences for mobile app navigation.

• Identify key frustrations in completing an online purchase.

Step 2: Prepare Your Interview Questions

Develop open-ended questions to encourage detailed responses.

Examples:

• Can you describe your typical experience using similar apps?

• What features do you find most helpful or frustrating?

• Avoid leading questions like "Do you agree this is the best way to do X?"

Step 3: Recruit Participants

Choose a sample group that represents your target audience.

Recruiting methods:

• Social media outreach.

• Email invitations to existing users.

• Participant recruitment platforms like UserTesting or Respondent.

  
  

Step 4: Conduct the Interview

Set the tone: Begin with a brief introduction to explain the purpose of the interview.

Ask your questions:

• Start with general questions to build rapport.

• Move to more specific or challenging questions as the session progresses.

Listen actively: Take notes or record the session (with permission).

Step 5: Summarize the Findings

Organize your data:

• Review recordings or notes and identify common themes.

• Group responses into categories like user goals, pain points, and suggested improvements.

  
  

Create a summary document:

Introduction: Objectives and participant demographics.

Findings: Highlight key insights with bullet points or charts.

Recommendations: Suggest actionable steps based on the data.

Step 6: Share and Apply Insights

• Present your findings to stakeholders or team members.

• Use the insights to inform wireframes, prototypes, or design revisions.

Tips for Success

• Empathy is Key: Build a comfortable environment for participants to share their thoughts openly.

• Stay Neutral: Avoid influencing responses by showing approval or disapproval.

• Be Prepared: Have a clear plan but stay flexible if new topics arise during the interview.