Diagnosis
Understanding Diagnosis in User and Design Research Diagnosis is a problem-solving approach that typically includes: Detecting symptoms Evaluating symptoms Identifying possible causes Recommending solutions Suggesting improvements When discussing analytical thinking and diagnosis, Thomas Bayes is often referenced. His probability-based theorem is widely used to draw inferences in science and mathematics. Bayesian Thinking Bayes’ theorem helps […]
Retrospective Probing
Understanding Retrospective Probing User feedback is critical to improving user experience. Without insights from observation, questionnaires, or probing, it is difficult to assess whether a product meets user needs. Retrospective probing helps identify elements that positively or negatively impact user experience. It is typically conducted one-on-one and alongside other probe qualitative research methods. Probing can […]
Concurrent Probing
Understanding Concurrent Probing In contextual inquiry, participants perform tasks in their natural environment, at their own pace, while thinking aloud. They describe their process and act as subject matter experts, while the researcher asks follow-up questions when needed. This creates a setting where both participant and researcher actively contribute. Concurrent probing builds on this by […]
Tree Test
Understanding Tree Testing Tree testing is typically conducted early in the design process using online tools like Treejack. It is often paired with card sorting or other methods to validate findings. Sessions are short—around 20 minutes—where users complete 15–20 tasks by locating items within the structure. It is a quick, simple, and cost-effective way to […]
Contextual Inquiry Method in UX Design
More about Contextual inquiry Why Use Contextual Inquiry in Design Thinking? Contextual inquiry is especially valuable during the early stages of design thinking, when teams need to build empathy and define user needs. By observing real workflows and asking contextual inquiry questions, researchers gain insights that inform requirements, personas, features, and content strategy, ensuring that […]
Word Concept Association in User Research
More about Word Concept Association Word Concept Association involves presenting participants with disconnected concepts or ideas through visuals or words (called stimulus words), often using flashcards or spoken words. Participants respond with the first word that comes to mind. This technique helps researchers understand thought processes, recall, and mental associations. In design, it reveals user […]
Personal Inventory
Understanding Personal Inventory Researchers ask: How does the sample group use objects around them? Do certain products take preference? Are individuals tech-conversant? Do digital products dominate non-digital ones? What lifestyle implications arise from product preferences? By understanding owned products and their competitive dynamics, researchers craft prototypes users will embrace, mirroring existing relationships while addressing unmet […]
Dyads & Triads
Understanding Dyads & Triads Dyads and triads are small social units, often studied in dyads sociology and triad sociology, that allow facilitators to explore differing opinions within a connected group. They help uncover multiple perspectives within the same purchase, usage, or decision-making context. This format is useful when comparing roles, behaviours, and expectations within a […]
Five Whys
More about Five whys The beauty of the tool is in its simplicity. Not only is it universally applicable, it also ensures that you don’t move to action straight away without fully considering whether the reason you’ve identified really is the cause of the problem. Of course, it may take seven or sometimes even three […]
User Testing / User Validation
User testing serves as a crucial bridge between design intentions and real-world user interactions, enabling teams to refine products based on authentic feedback and user behaviour insights. It is an integral part of design thinking, ensuring solutions are feasible, viable, and desirable for the intended audience. More about User Testing / User Validation User testing […]