How do you select the right synthesis method for your UX research?

2 Factor 2: Research data

The second factor to consider is your research data. What type of data have you collected? How much data do you have? How reliable and valid is your data? Your research data will influence your choice of synthesis method based on the format, quantity, and quality of your data. For example, if you have quantitative data, such as survey responses or analytics, you might use statistical analysis or charts to summarize and interpret your data. If you have qualitative data, such as interviews or observations, you might use thematic analysis or storytelling to extract and communicate your insights.

3 Factor 3: Research team

The third factor to consider is your research team. Who are the people involved in your research project? How many people are there? What are their roles and responsibilities? Your research team will affect your selection of synthesis method based on the size, diversity, and availability of your team members. For example, if you have a large and diverse team, you might use collaborative synthesis methods, such as workshops or co-creation sessions, to engage and empower your team members. If you have a small and busy team, you might use individual synthesis methods, such as sketching or writing, to save time and resources.

4 Factor 4: Research context

The fourth factor to consider is your research context. What are the constraints and opportunities of your research project? What are the expectations and requirements of your stakeholders and clients? Your research context will determine your choice of synthesis method based on the budget, timeline, and scope of your project. For example, if you have a tight budget and timeline, you might use lean synthesis methods, such as summaries or key takeaways, to deliver your results quickly and efficiently. If you have a flexible budget and timeline, you might use rich synthesis methods, such as personas or journey maps, to provide more depth and detail.

5 Factor 5: Research impact

The fifth factor to consider is your research impact. What are the implications and recommendations of your research findings? How will you communicate and share your insights with your audience? How will you measure and evaluate your research outcomes? Your research impact will influence your choice of synthesis method based on the clarity, relevance, and actionability of your insights. For example, if you want to communicate and share your insights effectively, you might use visual synthesis methods, such as diagrams or infographics, to capture and convey your insights. If you want to measure and evaluate your outcomes, you might use actionable synthesis methods, such as hypotheses or experiments, to test and validate your insights.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?