Contextual Inquiry
A field study that involves in-depth observation and interviews of a small sample of users to gain a robust understanding of work practices and behaviors.
How It Works
Introduction
Begin by introducing yourself, stating the goals of the inquiry, and communicating what the participant can expect. Be sure to let participants know their feedback is confidential!
Inform
Next up is the transition to the interview. Inform the participant that you will watch while they perform their work, and to expect questions whenever you see something interesting to discuss.
Explore
During the interview, be sure to watch and learn while stopping the participant to discuss observations that you’d like to explore further or clarify. Ask open-ended questions that let the participant give you details about why they took a certain action.
Clarify
End by asking any outstanding questions and summarizing your interpretation of the observed processes in order to get final clarifications and correct your understanding.
Synthesize
Synthesize the data collected during contextual inquiries by identifying important patterns and themes (e.g. affinity mapping).