Research & Testing

The human-centered development process according to DIN 9241-210 stipulates that users and other stakeholders are the focus of consideration at every phase of the process. In addition to direct involvement of stakeholders in the form of focus groups, interviews, and observations, a solid data basis and a well-prepared analysis are an excellent means of involving stakeholders in the process even if they are not directly involved.

Clear user group descriptions, personas and goal descriptions that are accessible, understandable and memorable for the development team are the key to actually bringing users and other stakeholders into the real center of the process and with them at all times to have on board.

There are changes in the life of every product or service. Society and technology are constantly changing and with them, users, their needs, habits and expectations are also changing. Once a product has been released, it should be subject to constant evaluation in order not to lose value over time - but not all products and services are further developed in an agile manner.

With a well-founded current status analysis with or without test subjects, for example using quantitative or qualitative usability tests, in-depth interviews or a heuristic analysis, potential in an offer can be quickly uncovered and the need for changes can be demonstrated. Based on a weighted utility analysis, a major improvement in usability and acceptance can be achieved with the least possible effort - or the foundation stone can be laid for a larger redesign.

Not only at the beginning of a development process, but also in the agile development of a solution, sound scoping and knowledge-driven prioritization play a crucial role in releasing the best possible MVP and achieving the greatest possible benefit with each subsequent release.

Research that combines the needs of users, but also other stakeholders, organizational factors and the market situation not only contributes to satisfied customers, but also to lower development costs and the highest possible return on investment.

The evaluation of theses, regardless of the altitude, is one of the central tasks of user research. We use both open-ended setups and comparative setups (A/B/n tests) in all methods. Regardless of whether it is a classic usability test, 5-second tests, concept tests or expert reviews, whether pre- or post-release – one of the numerous qualitative and quantitative test methods is available for every situation.

In the end, testing takes place – this way of thinking is outdated and can compete less than ever in modern and agile product development. In the iterative process of contemporary development, research must be an integral part in order to securely anchor user-centeredness in the framework and to always make safe decisions, from the product vision to scoping and prioritization to the evaluation of features. In addition to lower development costs and high process reliability, the output is a highly motivated development team with a shared focus on the goal.