What are the steps to define the scope and goals of your user research?

1 Identify the problem

The first step is to identify the problem that you want to solve with your design. This can be based on your own observation, feedback from users or clients, or market research. You need to articulate the problem clearly and concisely, and explain why it is important and relevant to your users. You can use tools like problem statements, how might we questions, or value propositions to frame the problem.

2 Define the research question

The next step is to define the research question that will guide your user research. This is the main question that you want to answer with your data and insights. It should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. You can use tools like SMART criteria, PICOT framework, or research objectives to formulate your research question.

3 Determine the scope

The third step is to determine the scope of your user research. This means defining the boundaries and limitations of your research, such as the target users, the context, the duration, the budget, and the deliverables. You need to balance the scope with the resources and time available, as well as the expectations and requirements of your stakeholders. You can use tools like personas, scenarios, stakeholder maps, or scope statements to define the scope.

4 Establish the goals

The fourth step is to establish the goals of your user research. This means defining the outcomes and benefits that you expect from your research, such as the insights, recommendations, or solutions that you want to generate. You need to align the goals with the problem and the research question, as well as the design objectives and strategy. You can use tools like SMART goals, OKRs, or logic models to set the goals.

5 Choose the methods

The fifth step is to choose the methods that you will use to conduct your user research. This means selecting the techniques and tools that will help you collect and analyze data from your users, such as interviews, surveys, observations, experiments, or prototypes. You need to match the methods with the research question and the goals, as well as the scope and the resources. You can use tools like research matrix, research plan, or user research methods map to choose the methods.

6 Communicate the plan

The final step is to communicate the plan of your user research to your stakeholders, such as your team, your clients, or your users. This means presenting and explaining the problem, the research question, the scope, the goals, and the methods of your user research, as well as the expected timeline and deliverables. You need to communicate the plan clearly and persuasively, and solicit feedback and approval from your stakeholders. You can use tools like research proposals, research briefs, or pitch decks to communicate the plan.

7 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?