Cultural Probes
A research method to gather information that is used for when the target group is unknown or unfamiliar. Cultural probes allows the establishment of a connection between designers and their target group. It is a more playful method, making it more fun for the involved groups.
Target groups are asked to explore their environment by themselves and document their experiences. For the documentation visual recordings are often used as they allow the designers to understand and relate to the environment more easily. These tools may include diaries, maps, cameras, postcards, etc. Traditional questioning methods can also be included, however, these questions should be open and allow the targeted person to elaborate as much as possible.
It is important to note that Cultural Probes are adaptable - each approach depends on the target group, wherefore for each target group a different approach is needed.
This research method supports the usage of physical objects which can help target groups to express themselves more efficiently.
Maps are a good way to visualise areas where activities are done. Stickers can show these locations and allow all members of the research group to instantly understand where these places are.
Additional notes:
Postcards are good tools as they are a familiar way of communicating surroundings and experiences with others.
When there are language problems, target groups can use cameras that can document the surroundings without any need of translation.
Cultural Probes are done before user testing (as for user testing a project is needed)
Compared to Cultural Probes, questionnaires only scratch the surface of the topic.
Target groups are asked to explore their environment by themselves and document their experiences. For the documentation visual recordings are often used as they allow the designers to understand and relate to the environment more easily. These tools may include diaries, maps, cameras, postcards, etc. Traditional questioning methods can also be included, however, these questions should be open and allow the targeted person to elaborate as much as possible.
It is important to note that Cultural Probes are adaptable - each approach depends on the target group, wherefore for each target group a different approach is needed.
This research method supports the usage of physical objects which can help target groups to express themselves more efficiently.
Maps are a good way to visualise areas where activities are done. Stickers can show these locations and allow all members of the research group to instantly understand where these places are.
Additional notes:
Postcards are good tools as they are a familiar way of communicating surroundings and experiences with others.
When there are language problems, target groups can use cameras that can document the surroundings without any need of translation.
Cultural Probes are done before user testing (as for user testing a project is needed)
Compared to Cultural Probes, questionnaires only scratch the surface of the topic.