Qualitative research

Qualitative research is about exploration. It focuses on discovering things we cannot measure with numbers and typically involves getting to know users directly through interviews or observation.

The latest in Qualitative research

Welcome to the Optimal Academy 🎓

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new online learning platform – the Optimal Academy. The academy offers on-demand courses and webinars to help you master each Optimal Workshop tool effectively and further build your expertise in Information Architecture (IA) and User Experience (UX).  We have crafted a learning experience to cater to... View Article

2 min read
UX research is a team effort

What’s better than a UX team doing awesome research? A whole organization backing investment in UX research. What’s that look like in practice?  Collaboration and support from stakeholders across the organization throughout the research process from set up, doing studies, sharing insights, and digesting, understanding, and actioning recommendations based on the amazing insights you generate.... View Article

3 min read
Using the 'narrative arc' in your user interviews

If you’re more of a visual person, you can watch a 20 minute talk which explains how to use the narrative arc in your in-person research. The power of stories Stories are powerful things. You don’t need me to tell you that! You’ve probably read a book, seen a play, a film or a TV... View Article

5 min read
Live training: How to win at qualitative analysis with Reframer

In our latest live training session product experts, Pete and Caitlin, take us on a deep dive into the new and improved qualitative analysis tool Reframer. The session is loaded with tips and demo’s on how to save time and streamline your qualitative research all within one tool.  They also discuss best practices for setting... View Article

1 min read
The only qualitative research tool you need is here

The only tool you need to power your entire qualitative research workflow is here. We’re excited to announce the new and improved Reframer is now live for all customers! What is qualitative research? It’s an integral part of any research journey. Think: customer or stakeholder interviews, prototype testing, A/B testing, moderated interviews, and open-ended questions.... View Article

4 min read
Reframer v2: Your qualitative research journey in one single platform

Over the past year, we’ve been busy getting ready to bring Reframer v2 out of beta. After implementing a ton of feedback from our superb beta users and plenty of usability testing, the day has finally arrived. It’s time to say bye-bye beta! What is Reframer v2 beta? Reframer v2 is a connected, collaborative and... View Article

3 min read
Affinity mapping - an introduction

User research is key to discovering the inner workings of your users’ minds – their emotional, organizational, informative needs and desires. These are all super important to creating a user experience that is intuitive and meeting your users’ needs in a way that means they feel loved, cared for and considered. All the deep understanding... View Article

5 min read
Reframer v2 beta affinity map
Introducing Reframer v2 beta

Please note: This tool is a work in progress and isn’t yet available to all Optimal Workshop customers. If you’d like to opt in to the beta, pop down to the bottom of this article to find out more. The ability to collect robust and trustworthy qualitative analysis is a must for any team who... View Article

4 min read
7 common mistakes when doing user research interviews

Want to do great user research? Maybe you already have tons of quantitative research done through testing, surveys and checking. Data galore! Now you really want to get under the skin of your users, understand the why behind their decisions.

6 min read
What do you prioritize when doing qualitative research?

Qualitative user research is about exploration. Exploration is about the journey, not only the destination (or outcome). Gaining information and insights about your users through interviews, usability testing, contextual, observations and diary entries.

6 min read