Last updated: 01 July 2021

Background

As with any project, there are elements that we can take from past experience but also need exploratory and evaluative research to inform our decisions.

Methodology

Set a research plan → Identify the goals of the research → Conduct the research via a suitable method(s) → Analyse the data → Document all the findings

Documenting the findings

• Identify the common themes and list them as user problems
• Write the needs due to those problems (some needs may be communicated by the user while others will be evident from the problems). For eg., If the problem is that you are hungry then the need is to eat food immediately
• Identify and list down the opportunities to provide for the needs above

What methods to use and when?

NN group is an excellent to learn about all kinds of UX research methodologies.

All the research should be need-based. Sometimes, we may only need to analyze the app reviews for a smaller problem and not need full-fledged interviews.

Always try to connect with outreach managers and volunteer managers as well because they are in close connection with students and volunteer teachers (two of our main stakeholders).

The most common methods of user conversations and surveys need practice

About the surveys

• Use surveys when looking for quantitative data.
• Ask questions with a particular future goal. For eg., Take this question "Approximately how many minutes do you use the Meraki app for learning in a day?"

You should provide several options like 2 hours or more, 1 to 2 hours, 30 minutes to 1 hour, 0 to 30 minutes and "haven't used in a while".

Use 80:20 principle: Now, let's say we have only so much time to analyze everything. Pickup the most critical answer category which would "0 to 30 minutes" and "haven't used in a while". On its own, right now it tells there is a problem but not what and why it is happening. Use this information to setup 1:1 conversations with those participants.

• Limit the questions to about 5 to 7.