Glossaries
Fly On The Wall
What is a Fly on the Wall in User Research?
A "Fly on the Wall" is an observational research technique in user research where the researcher observes participants in their natural environment without interfering, aiming to gather authentic insights about user behavior and interactions.
Synonyms: Unobtrusive observation, Naturalistic observation, Non-participant observation
Why Fly on the Wall Research is Important
Fly on the Wall research is crucial in user research because it allows researchers to observe users in their natural environment, providing authentic and unbiased insights. This method helps in understanding real user behavior, pain points, and interactions without the influence of a controlled research setting.
How to Conduct Fly on the Wall Research
To conduct Fly on the Wall research:
- Choose an appropriate setting
- Obtain necessary permissions
- Observe discreetly without interfering
- Take detailed notes or use recording devices
- Analyze the collected data for insights
This method can reveal unexpected user behaviors and contextual factors that might not surface in other research techniques.
Examples of Fly on the Wall Research
- Observing customers in a retail store to understand shopping patterns
- Watching office workers interact with software in their workplace
- Studying commuters using a mobile app during their journey
Frequently Asked Questions
- What's the main benefit of Fly on the Wall research?: It provides authentic, unbiased observations of user behavior in natural settings.
- How is it different from participant observation?: In Fly on the Wall research, the researcher doesn't interact with participants, unlike participant observation.
- Can Fly on the Wall research be done remotely?: Yes, it can be conducted remotely using technologies like cameras or screen sharing, with proper consent.
- Is Fly on the Wall research ethical?: It can be, as long as proper permissions are obtained and privacy concerns are addressed.