Field Studies and Focus Groups

In Field Studies - sometimes called contextual field research - we can achieve valuable insights by observing users in their natural environment.  Sometimes these studies take us to homes and work places where the user is not only dealing with the product being tested, but all the external factors that can impact its usability.  An out-of-box test of a computer setup or the installation of a satellite TV receiver are great examples of research that is most effective through Field Studies.

During Focus Groups, user experience consultants interview target customers about likes, dislikes, and preferences of products, services, and/or enhancement concepts.  Participants engage in discussion with other participants and consensus building may or may not be the end goal of this type of study. In many of these projects we like to introduce some sort of survey instrument so our customers get a data component in addition to the qualitative feedback.

During Stakeholder Interviews, user experience consultants interview stakeholders who are impacted by or who have an impact on your research objectives. These discussions provide a deeper understanding of each stakeholder’s role, as well as an overall understanding of the organizational requirements. This process also provides stakeholders an environment in which they can express their opinions and feel that they have been heard.

We customize Field Studies and Focus Groups for each client.  However, we do offer studies with pre-defined deliverables that may serve your need: Behavior-Based Website Persona Development, Feature Prioritization Study, and Taxonomy Research.

Contact Us for more information or to schedule a Field Study or Focus Group engagement.

Usability Sciences can customize usability field studies and usability focus groups for each client.