A designer creates a website one way. A developer codes a website a second way and the user follows a unique path that matches neither the designer’s nor developer’s original plan. Usability testing helps the design and development teams create a website that can function for all users without frustration. The goal of almost every…

Maybe you have a big idea, or the company you work for is looking to create something that’s never been done before. Enter backcasting, a User Research method that takes radical visions and plans to make them happen. “Backcasting is the process of taking your vision of the future and figuring out a strategy and…

Have you ever been caught in the endless game of “Why?” from a toddler? Although this game can be annoying at times, it’s a helpful way for curious children to learn how the world around them works. Similarly, the Five Whys problem-solving method keeps asking ‘Why” until the root cause of a problem is found.…

Getting from point A to point B is often not a straight path. Some steps are easy and pleasant, but there are usually bumps along the way that cause frustration. In the world of user research, documenting each step along a path and pinpointing a person’s actions, thoughts and emotions are called journey mapping. With…

As designers, we all strive to create the perfect app, website, or product that is perfectly intuitive and makes the client pleased. We hope our idea wins the best awards, and it makes us feel like Ralphy from The Christmas Story, who dreamed he received an A+++++ on his homework assignment. However, the reality is…