The introduction is used to set the stage and tone for the session, and for the moderator to build rapport with the study participant. The moderator performs the following:
- Introduces himself
- Thanks the participant for participating in the study
- Describes what will happen in the session
- Stresses that the goal is to get honest user feedback
- Explains that there are no right or wrong answers
- Explains the think-aloud method
- If the product being tested is a prototype, explains its limitations
- Informs the participant of the following:
- The session will be recorded
- Observers are present in the background (if applicable)
- Consent is needed to record the session
- Engages in small talk to build rapport (optional)
Thinking aloud refers ...