Research template · 1–2 weeks
Assumption-led (Lean UX)
You already have an idea. What could sink it?
Takes 1–2 weeks. The part only real people can do: usability sessions.
Phases
Idea
Write down the idea and the outcome it should change.
Done when: Is the idea one concept, with an outcome you could measure?
Methods that fit: Write a project brief, Frame a decision, Ideate concepts
Riskiest assumptions
List what must be true, and pick what to test first.
Done when: Do you know which assumption would sink the idea if it were wrong?
Methods that fit: Map assumptions, Run a pre-mortem, Review as stakeholders
Experiment
Build the smallest test of the riskiest assumption.
Done when: Has a real test run against the riskiest assumption?
Methods that fit: Build a prototype, Write a usability test script, Run usability tests, Build a survey
Learn
Decide whether to keep going, change course or stop.
Done when: Is it clear whether to persevere, pivot or stop?
Methods that fit: Synthesize insights, Check what new evidence changes, Write a readout
The usual steps
- Write a project brief (Idea)
- Ideate concepts (Idea)
- Map assumptions (Riskiest assumptions)
- Build a prototype (Experiment)
- Write a usability test script (Experiment)
- Run usability tests (Experiment)
- Write a readout (Learn)