May 13, 2004
User Research Paralysis
"Too much analysis can lead to paralysis" - co-worker/team member
Recently I've been working on a project to revamp the internet site of the company I work for. We are still in the beginning stages, yet I'm already feeling the pressure from the team to start producing even though it seems like we are missing too much of the user experience picture.
I'm pushing to get a clear understanding of our user base and I still feel that is absolutely necessary, but a little voice is in the back of my head asking "where is the line?". When does analysis turn into paralysis?
No one in the group questions the need or value of user research. In fact its heralded as a necessity, just one that cannot be afforded,yet. So we're stuck in a tough spot fleshing out the details of what the project needs to accomplish, so we can secure funding. But we are doing so with a limited understanding of the user base needs and desires which we can't get without the said funding. Catch 22.
Which leads me to a crisis of conscience. I feel like I'm shorting the business and the customer by not exploring the very unique audience that our industry has, and understanding better how to satisfy their needs. And I believe the product will suffer for it. But the project needs to move forward, and therefore I need to find the middle ground. The line.
I'll let you know if I find it.
- Posted in:
- Working on the Inside
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