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5. Making sense of your research

Sort and organise the data you've gathered to draw out insights

What is it good for?

  • Making sense of the insights you've collected during interviews
  • Involving the team

When to use it

After your user research is done in preparation for a playback session and to get ready for idea generation

Get the tool

Here's a handy Miro template you can make a copy of and use for your own synthesis. Or you can just use a wall in your home or office with some post-its.

How to use it

How to make sense of your research (or how to do synthesis)

1. Write down the key things you heard from your research on post-it notes:

  • It's best when you do this exercise with a colleague, to avoid unconscious bias
  • Consider using an online tool like a Miro board, or plot on a physical wall with post-its
  • Write one thing only per sticky note
Notion image
  1. Group similar post-its
  • You might group similar demographics, pain points, use of tech or types of support your users are using. Or something else - it will depend on what you've heard.
Notion image
  1. Draw your conclusions
  • What do the themes tell you?
  • What challenges are your users facing?
  • How are your users already trying to solve their challenges? Are their solutions working, or do they need others? You may not need to create a solution if they are already doing it themselves.
  • What tools are they using? Do they mention which tool features they like and dislike?
 

Further reading

  1. An alternative filter to use on your interview data