The user research strategy depends on the type of app and its stage in the development cycle. In most cases, apps in the very early stages will benefit from observational methods, whereas apps in later stages will benefit from observational methods combined with app prototypes. As you develop and execute your research plan, keep in mind the following: • • • Some user research is better than no user research. If you’re seriously strapped for time, keep the study small and recruit through friends and family. Don’t skip the user research plan! Sorting these details out in advance will save time and. | The user research strategy depends on the type of app and its stage in the development cycle. In most cases apps in the very early stages will benefit from observational methods whereas apps in later stages will benefit from observational methods combined with app prototypes. As you develop and execute your research plan keep in mind the following Some user research is better than no user research. If you re seriously strapped for time keep the study small and recruit through friends and family. Don t skip the user research plan Sorting these details out in advance will save time and aggravation. Be empathetic and respectful toward your participants. Your sessions will be richer and the benefits greater if there is mutual respect and understanding. 68 CHAPTER 3 INTRODUCTION TO USER RESEARCH Download from Analyzing User Research 4 AFTER COMPLETING THE USER RESEARCH for your app you will undoubtedly be armed with reams of notes dozens of photographs and hours upon hours of audio or video footage to sift through. The sheer quantity of these artifacts can be overwhelming but it s a priceless resource that you may refer to for months potentially years to come. The challenge is how to translate these artifacts and observations into insights that can easily be used by designers developers and other members of your team. This chapter provides you with step-by-step advice on how to effectively analyze your user research with an emphasis on collaborative affinity diagramming. You ll also learn how your findings can be used to create valuable design tools such as personas scenarios and user journeys. These tools will help you prioritize features and ensure that your app designs meet your users needs. To illustrate we ll look at case studies demonstrating how other app designers and developers used similar methods in their design process. 69 Download from Share the Wealth One of the first things to do after a study is gather the artifacts and
