Field Research

Why Field Research is Important

Field research is crucial in user research because it provides authentic, contextual insights that cannot be obtained through lab-based studies alone. By observing users in their natural environments, researchers can uncover unexpected behaviors, pain points, and opportunities that may not be apparent in controlled settings.

How Field Research is Conducted

To conduct field research:

1. Identify research objectives and target users
2. Develop an observation plan and interview questions
3. Recruit participants and obtain consent
4. Visit users in their natural environment
5. Observe and document user behaviors and interactions
6. Conduct contextual interviews to gain deeper insights
7. Analyze collected data and synthesize findings

Examples of Field Research in User Research

• Observing office workers using productivity software in their workplace
• Shadowing nurses as they use medical devices in a hospital
• Visiting homes to understand how families interact with smart home devices
• Accompanying shoppers on their grocery trips to study mobile app usage

Frequently Asked Questions

• What's the difference between field research and lab research?: Field research takes place in the user's natural environment, while lab research occurs in a controlled setting.
• How long does field research typically take?: Field research sessions can range from a few hours to several days, depending on the research objectives and context.
• What are the main challenges of field research?: Challenges include gaining access to users' environments, minimizing observer influence, and managing large amounts of unstructured data.
• Can field research be conducted remotely?: While traditionally done in person, some aspects of field research can be adapted for remote settings using video calls and screen sharing.