Understanding Users Through Targeted Research
NoteUser-centred design relies on research to gain a deep understanding of the people a product is intended for not only what they say or do, but who they are.
- Research methods are essential for gathering insights into user demographics, enabling designers to create products that resonate with their target audience.
- These methods help develop empathy and understanding, ensuring that designs are not only functional but also meaningful to users.
In UCD, empathy is crucial for:
- Designing with Users in Mind: Ensuring products are tailored to the specific needs and contexts of the target audience.
- Building Trust and Engagement: Creating experiences that resonate emotionally with users.
Recap of the key research methods (A2.1.4)
- Interviews
- Surveys
- Field Research
- User Observations
- Focus Groups
- Task Analysis
Planning a User-Centred Design (UCD) Research Process
- Define the Target Audience
- Identify key user demographics (e.g. age, gender, income, education).
- Explore psychographics: values, interests, lifestyle, attitudes.
- Create user personas to represent different user groups.
- Select Appropriate Research Methods
- Choose methods suited to the context and research goals.
