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UX Research Methods: A Brief Introduction

  • Steven Cook
  • Jul 24, 2022
  • 2 min read

Updated: Nov 6, 2023


If you are considering a career as a UX Researcher and are wondering what the focal point of your role will be, here is the answer: it will be the implementation of a variety of research methods and the analysis and presentation of your findings.

As this is only a brief introduction, I won't go into when to utilise each method as that requires a more in-depth and separate post... which may come later!

THE BIG 8

Some may disagree but I would say that these eight research methods are the ones you would be applying most often:

  1. User Testing

  2. Interviews

  3. Card Sorting (Tree Tests)

  4. User Personas

  5. User Journeys

  6. AB Tests

  7. Field Research

  8. Surveys

The more occasional methods would include:

  • Heuristic Reviews

  • Competitor Analysis

  • Desirability Studies – emotional/aesthetic testing

  • Diary Studies

  • Focus Groups

A DAY IN A LIFE

The best way to really mentally get into the role of a UX Researcher is to delve into the research methods above, come to understand what each entails - and then put yourself in the picture as the facilitator and see if you feel good in the role. There are no greater shortcuts to know if it is for you or not without actually doing the work.

It is important that you really put the real YOU into your imaginings of life as a UX Researcher.

DO YOUR RESEARCH

Making a change of career is a big step to take and not quite getting it right can have a major impact on our lives with a ripple-effect impact.

Take your time. Set yourself a comfortable, realistic target to make the change and then progress slowly but surely. Manage the process and control your emotions - if they are screaming 'NOW do it NOW.' Make a rational decision possible by finding out as much as possible about the nature of work in advance.

If possible, get involved in Research however you can. If you have to do so voluntarily - don't worry. It is worth it.

You will only know for sure on all levels that any new line of work is for you when you actually do the work involved which will be taking up the majority of your time. If you are happy doing the work, you will be happy most of the time in your new line of work.

That brings us to the end of another post. I hope you found it to be of some value.

All the best.

Steven Cook


 
 
 

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