Despite businesses often being based on creating desirable experiences, products and services for consumers, many fail to consider the end user in their planning and development processes. This book is here to change that.
User experience research, also known as UX research, focuses on understanding user behaviours, needs and motivations through a range of observational techniques, task analysis and other methodologies. User Research is a practical guide that shows readers how to use the vast array of user research methods available. Written by one of the UK's leading UX research professionals, readers can benefit from in-depth knowledge that explores the fundamentals of user research.
Covering all the key research methods including face-to-face user testing, card sorting, surveys, A/B testing and many more, the book gives expert insight into the nuances, advantages and disadvantages of each, while also providing guidance on how to interpret, analyze and share the data once it has been obtained. Now in its second edition, User Research provides a new chapter on research operations and infrastructure as well as new material on combining user research methodologies.
Review
"This book offers a comprehensive overview of how to be a great user researcher and explains exactly how to plan, run and debrief impactful user research. This new edition is right up to date with modern research needs for ethical data handling, and operationalising research. An essential handbook for new and experienced researchers to keep by their side!" ― Steve Bromley, Principal User Researcher at Reach PLC and author of Building User Research Teams and How To Be A Games User Researcher
"For those embarking on a career in user research, research operations, or for those with experience in the fields, User Research is a must-have guide. Fantastically practical with all those questions you didn't even know you had already covered." ― Brigette Metzler, ResearchOps Lead, Department of Agriculture, Water, and the Environment (Australia) and co-chair of the ResearchOps Community
"A true guide as it covers the full lifecycle of user and qualitative research, from design and collection through to dissemination. Following the advice in each chapter will ensure you deliver robust research and insights. The addition of the research operations section and the prominence given to the legal and ethical considerations only further enhances the credibility and utility of this book." ― Laura Wilson, Data Quality Hub Lead, UK Office for National Statistics and author of Respondent Centred Surveys
"This is an essential handbook for anyone learning how to conduct user research. It's also an invaluable reference book for experienced researchers. I shall add it to my library! What stands out in this book is the excellent blending of the basic building blocks with best practice for conducting quality user research." ― Karmen Guevara, Human-Computer Interaction Pioneer
"We finally have a practical and pragmatic overview of user research methods together in one book. I expect to see well-thumbed and bookmarked copies of this book on the desks of everyone who believes in the value of designing for their users." ― Amy Stoks, Principal Consultant, Affinity UX Ltd
"Stephanie Marsh artfully and comprehensively describes modern user research methods...and importantly, exactly when to use which one!" ― Colin MacAthur, Adjunct Professor, University Bocconi
"The comprehensive guide that follows delivers this promise, empowering its reader with clear explanations and practical instructions based on Stephanie's extensive experience. If you've ever felt intimidated by the complexity and breadth of the subject of user research, this book is for you." ― Amy Hupe, Design Systems and Content Design Expert
"Stephanie Marsh does a hard thing well- she covers the whole gamut of a user researcher's process while placing a strong emphasis on the core fundamentals. Whether you're an experienced researcher or you're new to the field, you'll want to keep this book close to hand." ― Mithula Naik, Head of Client Experience, Canadian Digital Service
About the Author
Stephanie Marsh (she/they) is a leading UX research professional and currently UX Research Operations Lead at Springer Nature. They are the former Head of User Research and Analysis for the UK Government Digital Service and former Head of Digital Strategy for the UK Ministry of Defence. She was also previously a consultant at Bunnyfoot, a leading UX consultancy in the UK. They have contributed chapters to a range of peer-reviewed texts in related fields and has delivered talks on UX Research, Research Operations and UX strategies at a range of conferences and industry events. She is based in London.
