1.3. Combining Online Usability Studies with Other User Research Methods
Using more than one user research method during a project provides a more complete and reliable picture of the entire user experience. There are four different user research methods that are excellent complements to online usability studies: lab usability testing, expert reviews, focus groups, and Web traffic analysis. Each method can effectively be used before or after an online usability study. Table 1.1 summarizes the strengths and limitations of each of these methods.
Table 1.1. How Common User Research Methods Compare Among Key Characteristics
| Method | Sample Size | Native Environment | Task Data (success, time, etc) | Preference/Attitudinal Data | Asking Follow-up Questions ... |
|---|
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