A user research journey is very wide, engaging in different phases, each with unique contributions to the overall project. The dichotomy between preparation and planning stages (“before field”) versus analysis and synthesis stages (“after field”) shows an interesting glimmer of what user research can involve. (At DODO, when we simply say “field”, we refer to the environment or setting where the research activities take place). This contrast helps to see my happiest moments which are often from those after field things, particularly the analysis in collaboration and synthesis that leads to insight toward action.

Before Field: Laying the Groundwork

The “before field” phase consists of meticulous preparation and planning. It is at this level that we lay down the preliminary work, setting off the tone and direction for the entire research project. Activities we do at DODO that may be required include:

– Objective Setting: The team will express its research goals in specific and concise terms toward which the project will be directed.

– Planning: We go on to identify the concrete timings, methodologies, and key milestones in a step-by-step order.

– Questioning: Then, we develop a set of thoughtful and unbiased questions, always considering user-facing language that can easily be understood by all participants, to drive the entire interview process.

This stage will be very methodical with attention to detail, where every small thing will be given paramount importance so that the research can go ahead smoothly. While very important, this preparatory phase often has much less of the dynamic interaction and spontaneous problem-solving that typify the “after field” phase. How so? Keep reading!

After Field: The Real Work Begins

Once the field activities are over, the “after field” phase is another place for the excitement and intellectual juice. It is primarily here that data analysis and synthesis occur to transform raw information into action-oriented insights. This is actually where the magic happens.

– Data Analysis: Sorting through recordings, notes, and observations to pull out patterns and make meaningful connections. This process calls for your patience, and a keen eye for the details.

– Synthesis and Insights: The act of bringing together the analyzed data to synthesize coherent findings that inform product development and strategic decisions.

The After Field Collaborative Spirit

One of the most enriching aspects of working in the “after field” phase is that it becomes highly collaborative. It’s a very collective activity entailing continuous discussion and creativity arguments.

– Collaborative Meetings: The meetings are active and interactive where at any one point in time, members express their views. It’s a safe space where all voices are heard and valued.

– Challenging Opinions: This encourages debate in healthy ways, as members challenge each other’s views and refine their arguments. The idea is for both to consider this process not only intellectually but also fundamentally in building the best conclusions possible. It is a space for robust discussions and works well.

The opportunity brought about by the collaborative environment fosters creativity and critical thinking. It can be invigorating to see how the various perspectives come together for holistic insight. This collective effort will make recommendations extremely thorough and actionable.

Personal Reflections

Now, reflecting on the two stages, I personally found the activities in the ‘after field’ stage to be very rewarding. It is really exciting to think on the spot. There is no feeling that can be equivalent to that of a sense of accomplishment and intellectual satisfaction in analyzing the data, synthesizing findings, and collaborating while debating solutions. The dynamism of these activities, together with the collaborative spirit, makes this stage the star in my journey through user research.

If the “before field” phase lays the groundwork, the real added value of user research is created in this last “after field” phase. This collaborative data analysis and synthesis not only transform data into insights but also lead the team to create a learning and improving culture. And it is at this phase where the underlying basis of user research—to get to know people, their behavior, and needs for better experience—is lived out.