We have all used software programs that are innately intuitive and those that are not. A wide gap exists between these two characterizations. No amount of designer and developer brainstorming can ensure that an interface and content architecture will meet the user's needs and perceptions.

Collecting user input of software programs often provides increased opportunities to observe the target audience. Specifically, software customers are often in the work place and can be observed in situ while using the program being investigated. This type of observation and interview is often referred to as 'contextual inquiry', and is typically structured to not be driven by 'goal oriented tasks' administered by a moderator, but rather to informally observe work flows and document likes, dislikes, etc. of the user. This method is very useful in both the formative and summative stages of a release.

In addition, a variety of user-experience methods can be applied to software products, as well as group discussion qualitative research conducted with existing customers or for the purpose of a competitive analysis. To learn more about the ways Alucid can assist you throughout your software development process, please contact our office today.