Glossaries
Research Objective
What is a Research Objective in User Research?
A research objective in user research is a clear, specific, and measurable goal that guides the direction and scope of a user research project. It defines what the research aims to discover, understand, or validate about users, their behaviors, needs, and preferences in relation to a product, service, or experience.
Synonyms: Research goals, Study aims, Research purpose, Investigation objectives
Why Research Objectives are Important
Research objectives are crucial in user research as they provide a clear direction for the study, ensure that the research efforts are focused and efficient, and help stakeholders understand the purpose and expected outcomes of the research. Well-defined objectives also make it easier to choose appropriate research methods and analyze the results effectively.
How to Create Effective Research Objectives
To create effective research objectives for user research:
- Identify the main problem or question you want to address
- Make your objectives specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART)
- Use action verbs like "identify," "evaluate," or "determine"
- Align objectives with overall business or product goals
- Limit the number of objectives to keep the research focused
Examples of Research Objectives in User Research
- To identify the primary pain points users experience when navigating the checkout process
- To evaluate user preferences for different navigation menu designs
- To determine the most effective onboarding process for new users of a mobile app
- To understand how users currently accomplish a specific task and identify opportunities for improvement
Frequently Asked Questions
- What's the difference between research objectives and research questions?: Research objectives are broad, overarching goals of the study, while research questions are specific inquiries that help achieve those objectives.
- How many research objectives should a user research project have?: Typically, a user research project should have 3-5 main objectives to keep the research focused and manageable.
- Can research objectives change during a study?: While it's best to establish clear objectives from the start, they can be refined or adjusted if new insights emerge that warrant a shift in focus.
- How do research objectives impact the choice of research methods?: Research objectives help determine which research methods (e.g., surveys, interviews, usability testing) are most appropriate for gathering the required information.