Contextual Inquiry
Contextual Inquiry is a generative, qualitative user research method that involves observing and interviewing users in their natural environment while they perform their tasks. This method aims to uncover user needs, behaviors, and attitudes by understanding how users interact with a product or service in their daily lives.
When to use
Contextual Inquiry is best used in the early stages of the design process when exploring user needs and requirements. It is also useful when evaluating existing products or services and identifying areas for improvement.
Pros
- Provides a rich understanding of users’ behaviors, needs, and attitudes in their natural environment
- Allows researchers to observe and ask questions in real-time, providing valuable insights
- Encourages collaboration and communication between researchers and users
Cons
- Can be time-consuming and expensive, as it requires researchers to travel to the user’s location and spend time observing and interviewing them
- Findings may be limited to a specific context and may not be generalizable to other contexts
- Can be challenging to recruit participants and gain access to their natural environment.
Learn more in the User Research: Comprehensive Guide article.