Käyttäjähaastattelu

Käyttäjähaastattelu, known in English as user interview, is a qualitative research method used in design and product development to gather insights directly from end-users. It involves one-on-one conversations between a researcher and a participant, where the researcher asks open-ended questions to understand the user's needs, behaviors, motivations, and pain points related to a specific product, service, or experience.

The primary goal of a user interview is to gain a deep, empathetic understanding of the target audience. Researchers aim to uncover not just what users do, but also why they do it, their underlying beliefs, and their emotional responses. This qualitative data can reveal usability issues, identify unmet needs, and provide inspiration for new features or improvements.

User interviews are typically conducted at various stages of the design process, from early concept exploration to testing existing products. The interview structure can range from highly structured, with a predefined set of questions, to semi-structured, allowing for flexibility and follow-up questions based on the participant's responses. The setting can be in-person, remote via video conferencing, or even over the phone.

Key aspects of a successful user interview include building rapport with the participant, active listening, asking probing questions, and observing non-verbal cues. The insights gained from user interviews are crucial for making informed design decisions, ensuring that products and services are user-centered and effectively meet their intended purpose.