Audits and Comparative Analyses

A usability audit is the type of expert evaluation that recognizes various usability and communication problems and pain points at different stages of product or service development. This type of analysis is cheaper and less time-consuming in comparison to user research. It can be conducted to complement other projects or alone, to establish the causes of observed issues. Such audits are usually carried out prior to the interface redesign, after significant changes to the interface, or when visible problems with a product's functioning occur (as indicated by an analysis of website traffic).

Desk research is also known as secondary research or analysis of existing data. Its essence is to gather and interpret existing data on the product, market, and user and customer behaviour. When exercised systematically, desk research can provide facts and proofs and, consequently, form the basis for product development processes (evidence-based design). An appropriately designed desk research helps understand market trends, competitors’ activities and needs of potential product recipients. It aids decision-making processes and facilitates cost optimisation.

Our consultancy employs a wide range of methods. We frequently combine them to meet the specifics of a research project. We usually apply diverse methods of audit (e.g., heuristic evaluation, referring to the rules of universal usability) and existing data analysis. Our consultancy intertwines various methods and approaches, such as desk research, observation (e.g., netnography), comparative analyses. We occasionally even conduct experiments to verify assumptions of a given project.

Similarly to other types of research, it is vital to begin by defining project objectives. They provide the basis for choosing the methods, determining the scope of action, and devising an action plan. The analysis of data and knowledge already gained is a particularly valuable element of the process. It helps identify areas requiring consultancy and assist in determining project objectives. In addition, writing a research project brief is an idea worth considering. Do not hesitate to reach out — we will happily share with you our templates and proven practices for research activity planning.

The documents summarising our consultancy are customised and depend on the research objectives and methods applied in a particular project. Typically, the document includes results of analyses, an overview of materials resulting from observations, and recommendations formulated based on research conclusions. We often conclude the consultancy by creating a knowledge repository, which can be progressively expanded by development teams. This reporting approach aligns with the concept of Atomic Research. We are happy to assist organisations with its development!

Atomic UX Research is a modern approach to research in the field of digital product development. Daniel Pidcock, the creator of Atomic Research, proposed a new way of organising and using data gathered during research, which widens the range of their use. Its foundation is the creation of an open knowledge repository. If you decide to implement Atomic Research, we will create a research framework and guide planned research accordingly. In this way, our consultancy becomes the point of departure for further-reaching processes and, simultaneously, development teams benefit by requiring the foundation to develop the product with the support of facts and knowledge.