User Research

For us, people always take centre stage. Accordingly, we listen carefully, observe and learn from the users of digital applications. The insights we gain form the perfect foundation for sustainable ideas and solutions.

We gain amazing insights through user research. As a result, we not only understand users better, but also rethink things - far away from clichés and stereotypes.

Customised and a perfect fit

User research is indispensable for developing solutions that guarantee optimal usability, meet the needs of users and create a positive experience.

User research offers far-reaching advantages for the realisation of digital projects:

Understanding users: User research leads to insights into the needs, wishes and problems of users. This knowledge can be used to develop solutions that are truly tailored to users.
Create a user experience: User research reveals what triggers an "aha" effect for users and thus represents a genuine user experience.
Optimise processes: Inefficient processes can be identified through user research. On this basis, solutions are developed that increase both productivity and satisfaction.
Minimise risk: User research can be used to recognise errors , the early rectification of which leads to cost and time savings.

From method selection to optimal application

User research can range from diary studies and qualitative interviews to A/B testing or onsite surveys and offers the right method for every project. A structured approach is the key to achieving valid research results.

This is how we proceed:

1. Select the method

Choosing the right method is fundamental. We advise our clients with a view to the objectives and an efficient process.

2. Planning and recruitment

Here it is important to define who will take part in the test, the survey period, whether a tool will be used for the survey and which test environment is required.

3. Define questions

With a view to the objective, questions are formulated in advance whose answers represent a real gain in knowledge.

4 Implementation and data collection

When collecting data, we attach great importance to a precise and anonymised procedure.

5 Data analysis and recommendations for action

The data is grouped and clustered and, if necessary, placed in relation to comparative data. Subsequently, hypotheses and measures are derived that provide a clear overview in a structured format.

Methods

Focus group discussion
Heuristic analysis
Qualitative interviews

Contextual interviews
Online survey
Environment analysis
Usability test

Service Safari
Shadowing
Diary study

Case study: User research for the Federal Environment Agency (UBA)

Problem

The Federal Environment Agency's digital offerings in the area of "sustainable consumption" have not yet fully developed their potential and could generate even greater added value for consumers with optimisations.

Procedure

Heuristic analysis: Five experts analysed the offerings in terms of usability, user-centred design and user experience.

Environment analysis: A comparative look at selected competitors served to identify best practices in a targeted manner.

Usability test: The aim of this test was to generate feedback from eight participants from different target groups in order to use it for further solutions.

Solution

3pc developed recommendations for action based on the user research methods heuristic analysis, environment analysis and usability testing .

This made it possible to uncover weaknesses, identify best practices and derive specific optimisation potential.

Result

The analyses were subsequently used to derive specific measures.

In order to present these clearly and keep an eye on their operationalisability, action plans were drawn up for short, medium and long-term recommendations for action.

Find out more about user research for the Federal Environment Agency here