Dipping your toes into thematic analysis
In part 1 of my "Spot Patterns" user research workshop this week we covered the key components of qualitative analysis & synthesis, practiced direct observation, conceptual pattern recognition, and dipped our toes into thematic analysis!
It's a multi-step process that’s quick and easy to grasp
Used to analyze seemingly disparate qual data into manageable “snippets” based on patterns/themes
This allows us to interpret the data from multiple POVs
Once identified (e.g. coded) the themes help us answer questions and find meaning within large data sets and between sets
It's a flexible approach in depth and scale
Applicable to semi-structured interview, diary study, ethnography and other UX research data we gather
A means to ensure we go thru all of data in a systematic and thorough manner (to mitigate bias)
Collaborative method that is easily facilitated remotely!
Pro Tips:
Gather all data and make it visible, accessible, and moveable
Don’t hold onto your favorites, preferences, or assumptions
Don’t cherry-pick the data. Present and review it all, equally
Check your expectations and biases at the door
Never use research as a weapon
There are several approaches to analyze and synthesize.
IT’S MORE FUN THAN A BARREL OF MONKEYS :)
