User Research Methods

Usability testing focuses on people and tasks. The tests are centered around common tasks and scenarios that represent a typical end goal. An example of this could be a usability test based around an applicant applying to the university.

• We run usability tests on campus in our usability lab and remotely using lookback.
• Remote Un-moderated usability tests usually last around 30 minutes.

Usability testing relies on candid and honest feedback from the participant and the ability to think out loud as they use the digital product. The partipant needs to be comfortable explaining their thought processes as they use a product, especially if the usability test is un-moderated.

Interviews are a fundermental research method that allows particiapnts to share personal accounts of an experience. This allows a UX researcher to gain insights into the opinions, attitudes and perceptions of an end-user.

An interview will follow a prepared script to make sure it is relatively structured and cover they key areas for discussion. However this will be flexible and detours will be allowed. Many of the deeper insights can be gained from covering areas not considered within an interview script.

Interviews can be done on campus in our UX lab or remotely using Zoom or lookback and are facilitated by the UX specialist.

Design Surveys are quick and efficient ways of getting feedback in a democratic way. A link is shared with a large pool of users and they give feedback. They usually take no longer than a few minutes and include the following type of studies:

• Design Preference Test - Pick Design A/B and coment why you like it
• 5 Second Test - Review a screen and tell us what you remember
• Information Archecture Tree Test - Try and and find content in a simple list, that is a basic version of website navigation
• First Click Test - A simple task and click where you would expect to be able to complete it

We use services including UsabilityHub and Optimal Workshop to provide our Design Surveys.

Ethnographic research is a method in which researchers observe and/or interact with a study's participants in their real-life environment. The key aspect to this form of research is obtaining a deep understanding of all aspects impacting on the participants. This holistic approach gives insights into the context and environment they live and work in. This method gives insights into their behaviours and goals.

This could include:

• Diary Studies
• Work Shadowing
• Field Studies