Making the case for user research
Research costs money.
So does building the wrong thing, launching a feature nobody uses or spending weeks debating decisions that could have been answered by talking to a handful of users.
Good user research doesn't eliminate risk entirely of course. What it does it mitigate your risk and reduce uncertainty.
Instead of relying on assumptions, opinions or the loudest voice in the room, it gives you evidence you can use to make better decisions with confidence.
Research can help you:
Avoid investing in ideas that aren't solving real problems.
Prioritise the features your users actually need.
Check how your brand, messaging and tone of voice land with your audience.
Spot usability issues before they become expensive to fix.
Build stakeholder confidence by backing decisions with evidence.
Save time by resolving debates that would otherwise go round in circles.
Often, the cost of a small research project is tiny compared with the cost of a single sprint spent building the wrong thing.
The right amount of research
I won't recommend a big project if something smaller will answer the question.
I enjoy lightweight user research, whether that means doing the work for you or supporting you to do it yourself. When a bigger piece of work is needed, I have the experience to deliver that too. We can discuss the amount and type of research that will give you the confidence to make good decisions. Every project is different, so what I offer is a bespoke research and coaching service.
The best user research is done in collaboration with clients or stakeholders. It’s not compulsory, but is always my recommendation. Read more about me and get in touch to book a free introductory call.
Need help getting approval?
If you'd like to work together but need to secure budget, I'm happy to help you make the case.
We can scope a project that fits your context and timeline and answers your biggest questions. We can explore how this would bring value to the project, and put together a proposal that demonstrates the value of the investment.
Often all you need is enough evidence to steer the next decision.