Document Research

Document research is a method that involves the systematic analysis of documents containing information about a specific scenario or event. This approach is used to investigate, categorize, and interpret physical or digital sources—most written materials—in social, public, or digital contexts. Document research offers an effective and often more cost-efficient alternative or supplement to methods like surveys, in-depth interviews, or ethnographic observations.

By using document analysis, researchers can extract valuable insights without direct interaction with participants, making it a practical and unbiased approach to understanding user behaviour and contexts. Whether applying qualitative or quantitative techniques, research documentation gathered through document research provides critical evidence to support findings in social and user research.

Quick details:

Document Research

Structure:

Structured

Preparation:

Documents to be researched

Deliverables:

Research notes, Documentation, Insights

Document research

More about Document Research

This method is not standalone but typically complements other user research techniques. Document research is best suited for answering specific questions rather than open-ended explorations, because the volume of documents can become overwhelming. As a result, it often serves as a supplement alongside surveys, interviews, or ethnography.

Alongside surveys and ethnography, document research is one of the primary social research methods, widely used to study the needs, behaviours, and expectations of user groups. The analysis involved in document research can be qualitative, quantitative, or a combination of both. When using documents as sources, researchers need to carefully consider the type and reliability of documents to ensure valid and trustworthy research documentation.

Advantages of Document Research

1. Availability

Document research relies on materials that are publicly accessible or obtainable upon request if private, making data sources widely available for analysis.

2. Time and Cost Effectiveness

Since the research focus is clearly defined beforehand, document research is a targeted and closed method. This focused approach saves considerable time and financial resources compared to methods requiring expert consultations or primary data collection.

3. Unbiased Collection Process

Because document research does not involve direct interaction between researchers and subjects, the risk of introducing bias is minimal. Additionally, when dealing with statistical records, the data is factual and can be verified and cross-checked, enhancing the credibility of research documentation.

4. No Need for Researcher Presence During Data Collection

The researcher can analyse documents without being present at the time the original data was collected, making this method flexible and convenient.

Challenges of Document Research

1. Limited by Available Data

Findings are constrained by the quantity and quality of existing documents. If relevant documents are sparse or incomplete, the research outcomes may lack depth.

2. Errors or Biases in Documents

If the documents contain inaccuracies or are biased, these flaws can lead to erroneous conclusions in the research documentation.

3. Documents Used Out of Context

Documents that are taken out of their original context may not provide meaningful or insightful information, affecting the validity of the study.

4. Extensive Preparation Needed Before Analysis

Preparing for document research involves recruiting researchers, identifying relevant sources, and shortlisting materials, which can be time-consuming and resource intensive.

Think Design's recommendation

Most design projects begin with some form of document research as secondary research. While document research provides valuable context and background, it should not be used as a standalone method. Designers and researchers should treat documented material as a starting point to complement other user research methods rather than assuming it contains all the answers.

Thank you for your feedback.