Glossaries
Interview
What is an Interview in User Research?
An interview in user research is a structured conversation between a researcher and a participant, designed to gather in-depth information about the participant's experiences, opinions, and needs related to a product, service, or topic.
Synonyms: User interview, In-depth interview, Qualitative interview, One-on-one interview, Research conversation
Why Interviews are Important in User Research
Interviews play a crucial role in user research by providing valuable insights into users' thoughts, behaviors, and motivations. They allow researchers to:
- Gather detailed qualitative data
- Explore complex topics in-depth
- Uncover unexpected information
- Build empathy with users
How to Conduct Effective User Research Interviews
To ensure successful interviews:
- Prepare a clear interview guide
- Create a comfortable environment for participants
- Ask open-ended questions
- Practice active listening
- Probe for deeper insights
- Record and transcribe the interview (with permission)
Examples of User Research Interview Questions
- "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?"
- "What improvements would you like to see in [product/service]?"
Frequently Asked Questions
- What's the difference between structured and unstructured interviews?: Structured interviews follow a predetermined set of questions, while unstructured interviews are more flexible and conversational.
- How long should a user research interview last?: Typically, interviews last between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the research goals and participant availability.
- How many participants should be interviewed in a user research study?: The number can vary, but 5-10 participants often provide sufficient insights for qualitative research, while larger sample sizes may be needed for quantitative studies.
- Can user research interviews be conducted remotely?: Yes, interviews can be conducted remotely using video conferencing tools, which can be convenient for both researchers and participants.
