Research study

The objective of this research study is to understand user interactions, preferences, and challenges with AR/VR software and hardware technologies. By conducting this study, we aim to gather insights that will inform the design and development of future AR/VR products, ultimately enhancing user experiences in immersive environments.

Timeline

July 2022 - Present

My role

As a UX Researcher, I oversaw the planning and execution of projects, collaborating with various teams to meet deadlines smoothly. I conducted sessions and analyzed reports, effectively communicating insights to clients and internal teams.

more details to be provided upon request

1. Planning

In the planning phase, I collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams to thoroughly address clients' requirements and project objectives, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and stakeholder expectations. By fostering a collaborative environment, I facilitate the synthesis of diverse perspectives and expertise, leading to comprehensive project plans that are both actionable and innovative. The accompanying image illustrates a planning stage within a four-week timeline, demonstrating the structured approach taken to develop detailed strategies and timelines for project execution.

Problem statement

Despite advancements in Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR) technologies, there remains a need to address the challenges of shaping immersive user experiences and pushing the boundaries of interaction design. As a UX researcher in this dynamic landscape, navigating the complexities of AR/VR collaborations, there arises a pressing need to identify and overcome obstacles to ensure optimal user engagement and satisfaction.

Research question

What are the effects of different AR/VR headset designs and features on user experience, comfort, and performance in various virtual environments?

My process

My approach is structured into three distinct phases: planning, in-session activities, and reporting.

2. In - session

During sessions, I conduct data collection to observe user interactions with prototypes. This involves observing user interactions, collecting feedback, and analyzing behaviors to understand their experiences. Using tasks, interviews, and surveys, I aim to uncover insights to inform design decisions and enhance product usability. I document key observations, identify recurring themes, and analyze user behavior throughout the session. Creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for participants is crucial, ensuring they feel at ease during sessions, which may last several hours. I gather qualitative insights from participants and utilize probing techniques as necessary to delve deeper into their experiences and perceptions.

3. Reporting

I showcase my adeptness in presenting findings through high-level insights. I incorporate charts to elucidate the data, capturing key metrics and trends gleaned from user research. Additionally, I meticulously highlight recurring themes discovered during sessions, providing valuable context to the analysis. A critical aspect of my approach is assessing the alignment of our findings with the initial theory, enabling informed decisions and iterative improvements. Through this comprehensive approach, I demonstrate my proficiency in delivering actionable insights that drive user-centered design

Outcome

Through my extensive experience collaborating on numerous projects as a User Experience Researcher (UXR), I have identified key areas for improvement in our recruitment and screening processes. One significant recommendation is to enhance our screener criteria by including questions related to accessibility. By doing so, we can ensure that our studies are inclusive and accommodating to individuals with diverse needs and abilities. Additionally, I propose refining the screener criteria to increase specificity, which will lead to more targeted participant selection and ultimately improve the outcomes of our studies.

Recommendations

1. Incorporate Accessibility Questions: Integrate questions into our screener criteria that address accessibility concerns. These questions should inquire about participants' accessibility requirements, such as mobility aids, assistive technologies, or any specific accommodations they may need to participate comfortably in our studies. By proactively addressing accessibility needs, we can create a more inclusive research environment and gather insights from a broader range of users.

2. Refine Screener Criteria: Review and refine our screener criteria to ensure specificity in participant selection. Instead of generic questions, tailor the screening process to each project's unique requirements. For example, consider including questions related to participants' hairstyle or coverings if relevant to the study's context. This level of detail in screening will help us recruit participants who closely match our target user demographics, leading to more accurate and actionable research findings.

3. Extend Recruitment Channels: Explore additional recruitment channels to reach a more diverse pool of participants. Consider partnering with universities and community organizations to recruit participants from varied backgrounds and demographics. This approach can enhance the representativeness of our study samples and provide richer insights into the needs and preferences of different user groups.

By implementing these recommendations, we can elevate the effectiveness of our user research efforts, ensuring that our studies are inclusive, well-targeted, and yield valuable insights that drive product improvement and innovation.

Next steps…

Given the increasing integration of AI technologies into various products and services, it's essential to anticipate and address the evolving challenges and opportunities in user research. To further enhance our User centered practices in the context of AI, I propose the following next step:

• Explore Ethical Considerations in AI Research: Given the ethical implications of AI technologies, it's imperative to consider ethical principles and guidelines in our research endeavors. Develop frameworks for navigating ethical dilemmas related to AI, such as privacy concerns, transparency, accountability, and the impact on marginalized communities. By proactively addressing ethical considerations, we can build trust with users and stakeholders and foster responsible AI innovation.

• Integrate AI Bias Evaluation into Research Process: As AI systems are susceptible to biases that can perpetuate inequality and exclusion, it's crucial to assess and mitigate bias in our research. Incorporate methods for evaluating AI bias into our research process, such as conducting bias audits, analyzing training data, and assessing algorithmic fairness. By systematically addressing bias, we can ensure that our AI-powered products are equitable and inclusive for all users.

• Investigate User Experience with AI Interfaces: As AI interfaces become more prevalent, it's essential to understand users' interactions and experiences with these systems. Conduct research to explore how users perceive and interact with AI-powered interfaces, including voice assistants, chatbots, and recommendation algorithms. By gaining insights into user behaviors, preferences, and pain points, we can design AI interfaces that are intuitive, user-friendly, and meet users' needs effectively.

• Collaborate with AI Experts and Stakeholders: Foster interdisciplinary collaboration with AI experts, data scientists, and other stakeholders to leverage their expertise in our user research endeavors. By working closely with these professionals, we can gain a deeper understanding of AI technologies' capabilities and limitations and develop more informed research strategies and methodologies.

By embracing these next steps, we can strengthen our UXR practices in the era of AI, ensuring that our research is ethical, unbiased, and aligned with the evolving needs and expectations of users in an AI-driven world.