The user research "magic wand" question is often debated for its effectiveness, relevance and depth. The conventional way of posing this question—"If I could solve one thing about X with a magic wand, what would it be?"—tends to prompt responses based on the belief that correcting a single issue would somehow resolve all other challenges. My approach deviates by incorporating a specific [verb] [noun] framework to focus the response and steer clear of the crazzzzzzy idea that one fix-all solution exists.

A Targeted Wand is Better

Rather than casting a wide net with a generalized question, I have a more targeted approach: "If I had a magic wand, and I could do anything to [verb] [noun], what would you wish for?" This method does more than scrape the surface for wishful solutions. It digs deeper into the core issues and aspirations that drive behavior and decision-making ab out the topic we are exploring.

Here are several examples of that [verb] [noun] framework. Simply fill in the [verb] [noun] with one of the pairs below to see how this plays out. These pairs can also be mixed and matched. Of course it's paramount to craft a [verb] [noun] pairing related to your research goals.

"If I had a magic wand, and I could do anything to [verb] [noun], what would you wish for?"

Why Specificity Matters

Integrating specific actions and objectives into the question adds focus, directing respondents to think about particular aspects of the core topic. This precision not only yields more actionable feedback but also aligns with UXR's goal-oriented nature, helping to ensure that the responses are directly applicable to informing solutions.

Strategic Application for Richer Insights

Asking the targeted 'magic wand' question at the end of an interview builds on the conversation that's taken place. After a solid discussion on the main topic, participants have likely already considered the topic (likely far more than before) and are primed to provide more expansive feedback, beyond basic wants. This approach and timing often lead to practical and genuinely user-focused ideas or potential solutions. I never ask the question in the first half of a session.

Beyond the Question: A Tool for Empathy and Validation

Reframing the magic wand question in this nuanced manner also lets participants know that their thoughts and feelings are valued. It often fosters a stronger connection with participants, and encourages openness and imagination critical for uncovering new perspectives on needs and hopes.

Do's and Don'ts: Using the Refined "Magic Wand"

Do:

• Focus on specific challenges: Tailor the question to elicit responses on particular aspects.

• Engage deeply with follow-up questions: Delve into the rationale behind participants' wishes to extract deeper understanding.

• Use towards the end of an interview: Leverage the built-up context to encourage thoughtful, expansive answers.

• Personalize the inquiry: Adapt the [verb] [noun] structure to suit the core study topics

• Value participant input: Appreciate participant contributions to improve feedback quality.

Don't:

• Settle for surface-level responses: try to explore initial answers to find underlying motivations and desires.

• Isolate the question from the research context: Integrate it as part of a broader, comprehensive strategy.

• Ask at the onset: Instead, pose the question towards the end of the discussion.

• Overlook practical constraints: Remember to consider real-world limitations when analyzing the responses. Not all feedback is applicable.

• Pressure for simplistic solutions: Recognize the complexity of business challenges and avoid looking for a silver bullet.

Incorporating a focused [verb] [noun] structure into the magic wand question transforms it from a generic prompt into a strategic user research technique. This refined approach not only enhances the depth and applicability of the feedback gathered but also reinforces the value of understanding the detailed needs and aspirations of the people we design for, paving the way for more impactful and user-centered solutions.

Increasing Interest in UX Consulting

I often field questions about becoming a UX independent consultant. This month there has been a significant increase in these questions! I'm an open book and happy to chat about them all, share my experiences, and have candid discussions. How did I make the transition, when, why, what I know now that I wish I new then, how do I find clients, price my work, scope projects, and more.

Please join me on March 9th for "Freelance/Independent UX/UXR Consulting: Two hour interactive Q&A". Register on Eventbrite. All registrants will receive the recorded replay, whether attending live or not, as well as some Curiosity Tank UX consulting resources.

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And that’s a wrap!

We try to alternate between a theme and UX/UXR jobs, events, classes, articles, and other happenings every few weeks. Thank you for all of the feedback. Feedback is a gift, and we continue to receive very actionable input on how to make Fuel Your Curiosity more meaningful to you.

What do you think? We're constantly iterating and would love to hear your input.​

Stay curious,

- Michele and the Curiosity Tank team

PS: Don't forget to register for the "Freelance/Independent UX/UXR Consulting: Two hour interactive Q&A" on Eventbrite!