UX Research Methods — Comprehensive Methodology Guide

Research Philosophy

Great design is grounded in evidence, not assumption. UX research exists to reduce the risk of building the wrong thing and to illuminate the gap between designer intent and user reality. Every design decision should trace back to user evidence — whether from direct observation, behavioral data, or validated heuristics.

The Research Hierarchy (adapted from NNG Group)

1. Behavioral data (what users do) > Attitudinal data (what users say)
2. Qualitative research (why) informs quantitative research (how much)
3. Generative research (discover opportunities) precedes evaluative research (validate solutions)
4. Continuous discovery (ongoing) outperforms project-based research (periodic)

Research Method Selection Matrix

Discovery / Generative Methods