In order to design and carry out studies to understand user behavior and design overwhelming products, it is necessary to use the toolbox of both qualitative and quantitative methods. The general description of the two methods are illustrated as below.
Design process of APP/ Web in the software industry:
- Quantitive Research (Not always truly accurate, so we need more information!)
- Consumer Behavior
- Market feedbacks
- Data Analysis
- Qualitative Research
- Interview (Stakeholders/ Customers/ Subject Experts) 面談(團體) EX: “What are you thinking?” “Why did that confuse you?” “Where would you click next?”
- Contextual Inquiry 實境訪談(個人) EX: Observing the behaviors in a natural way – best method! Individual sessions, cannot be replaced by interview
- Cultural Probe 文化探測 Recorded by the participants: words, photos, etc. Realize their mental status or difficulties
- Design Process & definition
- Wireframe – white and gray interface for quick communication.
- Mockup – static visualized look and feel as interface backbone.
- Prototype – interactive app, almost real for feedback gathering and usability test.
But the job doesn’t end here. Being an in-house UX designer, it is also important to be able to speak compellingly about the impact and value of great design. More often than not, how to win the hearts and minds of other traditional departments (business, marketing, IT) where the art or the business of UX is less understood is also a crucial job.
Reference: The Principles of Interaction Design in the Post-digital Age