Field Studies

Observe users in their natural environment to understand real-world behaviors.

Research Classification

Research Type

Attitudinal Behavioral

Behavioral: Focuses on what people do: their actual behaviors and actions.

Data Type

Qualitative Quantitative

Qualitative: Collects non-numerical data like observations, interviews, and open-ended responses.

Requirements

Budget

high

Significant investment required

Timeline

long

1-3 months

Team Size

large

Requires a larger team (4+ people)

Research Goals

exploratory generative

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • ✓ Captures real-world behavior
  • ✓ Reveals unexpected user needs
  • ✓ Provides deep contextual understanding

Cons

  • × Time-consuming and expensive
  • × May require travel
  • × Observers can influence user behavior

Use Cases

Example Scenario

Observing nurses in a hospital to improve the usability of electronic health records.

Additional Applications

  • • Workplace research
  • • Retail shopping experience
  • • Medical device usability