User-Centered Design
In this context, the term user-centered design is often used. The term itself already gives an idea of what it is all about. The user should be integrated into the application development process from the very beginning. This starts with understanding the context of use, leads to the specification of the user requirements in the conception phase and ends with the development of the design solution. But this is not where this process ends, because all solutions must then also be evaluated from the user perspective.
We call the monitoring of this process UX research, that is, user experience research. This involves the systematic study of the target group and its requirements. The goal is to add realistic context and insights to design processes. As UX researchers, we apply various methods to uncover problems and design opportunities.
Studies and research
People's behavior is constantly being studied. Studies, surveys, insights from psychology, marketing and other disciplines provide us with valuable insights. Projects we have worked on also add to our wealth of experience.
Focus groups
A group discussion of potential users can provide us with information on the general attitude and expectations of an application. Initial conceptual ideas and approaches often emerge in this context.
Surveys
Surveys serve us to collect larger samples on previously defined questions. Here we mainly distinguish between cross-sectional and longitudinal studies – i.e. whether a snapshot is to be captured or a process is to be accompanied. These surveys can be conducted in person, in writing, online or offline.
Expert interview
Especially in the development of specialized applications, it is useful to conduct qualitative interviews with experts. These interviews can be standardized or freely formulated.
On-site study
Particularly practical, unbiased and valid information can be obtained by accompanying users in their daily work on site. Here, actual processes can be analyzed and a deep understanding of certain procedures can be developed. Especially for the new development of a product, this type of study can provide particularly helpful information to develop new and targeted solutions.
Diary studies
Similar to the on-site study, the diary study follows the daily work of a user.In contrast to personal observation, the user documents his or her experiences independently. UX specialists then evaluate and interpret this documentation.
Analytics
For existing products, tracking methods – i.e., analytics data – can be helpful in identifying usability and user experience issues.A variety of insights can be gained with this data. Navigation paths, use of interaction elements, bounces, conversation rates are just some of the information that can be gained through this type of analysis.
User testing
User tests are part of the standard repertoire in UX research work. They are versatile and flexible to use throughout the development process. They help us to identify and eliminate difficulties in the application.Testing is done with people who match the user profile of the application.In addition to the test candidate, a logger and observers are always present. The test scenarios are prepared by us individually and following established standards, as well as evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively afterwards.
Guerrilla user tests
Sometimes things simply have to be done quickly. The validation of manageable questions can also be done by quick user tests by randomly selected test candidates.The office corridor or the café around the corner is suitable for this. In this way, one can identify, correct, and verify assumptions in quick iterations of non-specific problems.
The benefits of UX Research
So if a new product is to be developed, which is based on the needs and requirements of its users, or if the product and marketing strategy of an existing product is to be further developed, UX research is the key to obtaining the essential information for this.
Our UX experts not only help to collect data, but also to prepare and interpret it in a comprehensible way. This is the prerequisite for developing a product in a strategic, sustainable and future-proof manner, for tapping new user groups and for better understanding existing users and their needs.