As companies expand their user-centered design practices, many are venturing outside their usability labs to visit people where they actually do their work. These field visits bring new insights into true customer needs, working environments, and social situations.

This 2-day workshop is an in-depth exploration of how to plan and conduct a field study, how to do a detailed task analysis, and how to conduct contextual interviews. It includes creative ideas for collecting and using data, as well as tips for planning and conducting the visits. Throughout the course, participants will have the opportunity to ask questions, discuss their own methods, and exchange experiences. The instructor will present case study examples, and there will be many exercises designed to give participants practice using techniques.

The class will be divided into teams of 4 - 6 people. The exercises will be based on a case study of the course organizer's choice. Teams will use the case study to practice planning a field study, gathering data, and analyzing data. The course stresses active participation; more than 50% of the class time will be spent in discussion and exercises.

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