BUX102 - User Research & User Centered Analysis
Course Description
User research is the art and science of obtaining an in-depth understanding of user behaviors, needs, and motivations through observation techniques, task analysis, and other feedback mechanisms. It is no longer acceptable to require users to adapt their natural behaviors in order to learn and use a new product. Successful user experience (UX) designers design from the principle of supporting the existing behaviors and beliefs their users already have. The only way to find out what these are is through careful user research and user centered analysis. However, just conducting the research doesn't necessarily lead to UX success: there are many potential pitfalls along the way. One of the biggest is the wide variety of methodology mistakes that can be made in user research.
In this class learn why user research is the bedrock to any UX project; how to sell this concept to the business when you need to; and best practices in conducting user research.
This is a required course for the User Experience Design Certificate Program.
Course Outline
Explore topics related to research as a foundation to any UX project, including:
- Design Thinking methodologies for user centered research
- Different phases of user research
- Project management and strategic planning for user research
- How to design your research project
- Data collection, analysis and output of findings
- Important and common research methodologies, plus possible alternatives available
- Indirect vs direct methodologies
- How to communicate your findings with the various stakeholders and decision-makers
- Best practices and code of ethics
Applies Towards the Following Certificates
- User Experience Design : Required