A storyboard in user research is a visual representation of a user's journey or interaction with a product or service, typically presented as a series of sketches or images that illustrate key steps or scenarios.
Synonyms: User scenario illustration, Visual user journey, UX storyboard, Experience storyboard
Storyboards are powerful tools in user research, helping teams visualize and communicate user experiences. They're often used to:
By creating a visual narrative, researchers can better understand and empathize with users' needs and experiences.
Storyboards offer several advantages in the user research and design process:
To create impactful storyboards:
Remember, the goal is to communicate the essence of the user experience, not to create a work of art.
What's the difference between a storyboard and a user journey map?: While both visualize user experiences, storyboards focus on specific scenarios using illustrations, while journey maps provide a more comprehensive overview of the entire user experience.
Do I need artistic skills to create storyboards?: No, artistic talent isn't necessary. Simple stick figures and basic shapes can effectively communicate ideas in storyboards.
How detailed should a storyboard be?: Storyboards should be detailed enough to convey the key points of the user experience, but not so detailed that they become time-consuming to create or difficult to understand at a glance.
Can storyboards be used for digital products?: Absolutely! Storyboards are versatile and can be used for both physical and digital products or services to illustrate user interactions and experiences.