33. Tracking UX Progress with Metrics (feat. Dr. John Pagonis, UXMC, Qualitative and Quantitative Researcher)
Dec 4, 2023
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Dr. John Pagonis, UX Master Certified, shares insights on tracking UX progress with metrics. He discusses selecting metrics, fear of metrics, and aligning KPIs with design objectives. The importance of trust, communication, and patience in research work are also highlighted.
Closing the loop in UX research is crucial for continuous improvement and evidence-based design decisions.
Combining qualitative and quantitative research methods provides a comprehensive understanding of user experiences and enables data-driven decision-making.
Deep dives
The Importance of Closing the Loop in UX Research
One of the main insights discussed in this podcast episode is the importance of closing the loop in UX research. Closing the loop refers to having a feedback mechanism that informs design decisions and allows for continuous improvement. By measuring and benchmarking UX metrics, practitioners can provide evidence to improve products and enhance users' lives. The podcast emphasizes the need to combine qualitative and quantitative research methods to get a comprehensive understanding of user experiences. This way, teams can make informed and data-driven decisions, improve their products, and prove the ROI of UX work.
The Challenges of Applying Quantitative Data in UX Work
The podcast episode highlights the challenges of applying quantitative data in UX work. It acknowledges that there is sometimes a lack of maturity in understanding how to use measurement instruments and interpret the data. The fear or aversion to metrics and measurement often stems from a lack of education and understanding. The episode emphasizes the need for education to bridge this gap and help teams realize the value and benefits of quantitative research. By combining quantitative and qualitative research, teams can gain deeper insights and make more informed decisions.
Balancing Metrics and Narrative for Effective Communication
The podcast explores the importance of balancing metrics and narrative for effective communication. While metrics provide valuable insights, it is crucial to link them to meaningful stories and narratives that stakeholders can understand and relate to. By translating quantitative data into narratives, UX practitioners can engage stakeholders and create a clear understanding of the impact of design decisions. This approach not only helps in obtaining buy-in and support for UX initiatives but also facilitates better decision-making and prioritization based on user needs and goals.
The Value of Combining Qualitative and Quantitative Research
The podcast episode underscores the value of combining qualitative and quantitative research. While each approach has its strengths and limitations, using both methods can lead to exponential benefits. The combination allows for a more holistic understanding of user experiences, comprehensive measurement of UX metrics, and the ability to close the loop by connecting insights to actionable next steps. It also enhances team and organizational maturity in the field of UX by promoting a balanced and evidence-based approach to design decision-making.
Measuring a user experience can be intimidating at first, but it's an essential part of determining whether your work is moving in the right direction (and by how much). UX Master Certified Dr. John Pagonis shares his experiences from working with other organizations on measuring UX improvements and interpreting quantitative data.