38. User Interviews (feat. Steve Portigal, Research Consultant and Author)
Apr 11, 2024
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Steve Portigal, Research Consultant and Author, discusses the critical role of User Interviews in product development. Topics include benefits like deep user empathy, challenges like bias, and skills needed for effective interviewing. Insights on when to use interviews, value over surveys, and evolving research practices in organizations are explored. Practical advice on avoiding leading questions and engaging with Steve's resources.
User interviews offer deep user empathy for informed decision making.
User interviews provide in-depth insights into user motivations and behaviors compared to surveys.
Deep dives
Definition of User Interviews and Method Evolution
User interviews are discussed as a popular method in UX research, emphasizing the conversational and exploratory nature of interactions between researchers and participants. The method has evolved over the years, incorporating various tactics like semi-structured and open-ended questions. Steve raises the point that interviews have moved towards remote settings for accessibility, offering insights into users' contexts and experiences.
Personal Connection Through Research Experience
Steve shares his journey into user research, highlighting the transition from design to user-focused approaches. He emphasizes the experiential learning gained from conducting interviews, leading to a deeper understanding of user behaviors and preferences. Through practical experience and reflections, Steve found a niche in user interviews that continuously challenges and excites him.
Interviews vs. Surveys: Choosing the Right Method
The discussion delves into the comparison between interviews and surveys as data-gathering methods. Steve points out the limitations of surveys in providing in-depth insights compared to interviews, which offer the opportunity to explore motivations and behaviors. While surveys are efficient for quantitative data, interviews excel in uncovering the 'why' behind user responses.
Maturing UX Research Practice Over a Decade
Steve reflects on the advancements in UX research practices, emphasizing the growth of in-house research teams and the emergence of research operations as a strategic function within organizations. The shift towards internal practitioners and operational support has streamlined research processes and facilitated a deeper understanding of user needs and behaviors.
In this episode, we dive into User Interviews with Steve Portigal, discussing their critical role in product development and design research. User interviews, a qualitative method, involve conversations with users to gather insights about their experiences, behaviors, and needs. We discuss the benefits of this approach, such as deep user empathy and informed decision making, alongside common challenges like bias and recruitment. Join us in understanding when to use user interviews and how to get the most out of them.