Structuring a User-Centred Design (UCD) Inquiry
What is a UCD Research Plan?
- A user-centred research plan outlines how a designer will gather information about users to inform their design.
- It should include:
- Clear research question
- Appropriate methods: Such as interviews, surveys, observations, or focus groups.
- Target user(s): Defined by demographics, needs, or experience.
- Timeline: Structured and realistic for design stages.
- Ethical considerations: Consent, data privacy, and inclusive practices.
Definition
Research Question
A type of question that focuses research to find the required answers.
Note
Characteristics of Effective Research Questions
- User-Focused: Centered on the needs, behaviors, and experiences of users.
- Specific: Clearly defined to address particular aspects of the design.
- Actionable: Provide a basis for gathering insights that inform design decisions.
Example
Example Research Questions
- What challenges do elderly users face when using home appliances?
- How do students interact with school lockers?
- Why do commuters prefer certain reusable water bottles?
Planning Framework Template
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Goal | What are you trying to learn? |
| Target User | Who will you study? |
| Method | How will you collect data (e.g. interviews, task analysis)? |
| Tools | What materials will you need? |
| Location & Context | Where will the research take place? |
| Timeline | When will each stage happen? |
| Ethical Concerns | How will you ensure informed consent and fairness? |
Note
A UCD plan is a living document that may evolve as new insights are gained during the inquiry process.
Common Mistake
- Confusing a design plan with a research plan.
- Writing vague or broad research questions.
- Not linking chosen methods to the research goal.
- Forgetting ethical considerations.
Example
Public Transport Ticket Machine
- Goal: Identify usability issues faced by tourists and elderly users when using ticket machines.
- Target User: Tourists unfamiliar with the system and elderly individuals with limited dexterity or confidence.
- Method: On-site observations followed by short interviews.
- Tools: Observation sheets, interview prompts, pens, consent notes.
- Location/Context: Main city train station, during peak and off-peak hours.
- Timeline: 3 days observation, 2 days interviews, 1 day for analysis.
- Ethical Considerations: Verbal consent obtained; no personal data collected; non-intrusive observation.
Reflection and Application
Self review
Create a UCD Research Plan
Choose a simple design problem (e.g. school bag, lunchbox, classroom chair). Create a research plan that includes:
- Clear research questions
- Appropriate research methods
- Defined target users
- Realistic timeline
- Ethical considerations
