Glossaries
In-depth Interview (IDI)
What is an In-depth Interview (IDI) in User Research?
An In-depth Interview (IDI) is a qualitative research method used in user research where a researcher conducts a one-on-one conversation with a participant to gather detailed insights about their experiences, opinions, and behaviors related to a product, service, or topic.
Synonyms: One-on-one interview, Qualitative interview, Deep dive interview, Individual depth interview
Why In-depth Interviews are Important in User Research
In-depth interviews are crucial in user research because they provide rich, detailed information that can't be obtained through quantitative methods alone. They allow researchers to:
- Explore complex topics in detail
- Uncover unexpected insights and user pain points
- Understand the context behind user behaviors and preferences
- Build empathy with users through direct conversation
How to Conduct an Effective In-depth Interview
To get the most out of an IDI:
- Prepare a discussion guide with open-ended questions
- Create a comfortable, non-judgmental environment for the participant
- Use active listening techniques and probe for deeper insights
- Allow for flexibility in the conversation to explore unexpected topics
- Record the interview (with permission) for later analysis
Examples of In-depth Interview Questions in User Research
- "Can you walk me through your typical process for [specific task]?"
- "What challenges do you face when using [product/service]?"
- "How does [product/service] fit into your daily routine?"
- "Can you tell me about a time when you felt frustrated while using [product/service]?"
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long should an in-depth interview last?: Typically, IDIs last between 30 minutes to 1 hour, but can be longer for complex topics.
- How many participants are needed for in-depth interviews?: The number varies, but 5-15 participants often provide sufficient insights for many user research projects.
- What's the difference between an in-depth interview and a focus group?: IDIs are one-on-one conversations, while focus groups involve multiple participants discussing together.
- Can in-depth interviews be conducted remotely?: Yes, IDIs can be effectively conducted via video calls or phone, making them versatile for remote research.
