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Nine Foundational Rules for Product Teams to Run Accurate Research That Drives Informed Decisions

Max Turner

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Published in Product Research Rules: Nine Foundational Rules For Product Teams To Run Accurate Research That Delivers Actionable Insight

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Effective product development hinges on accurate research that provides actionable insights. For product teams, adherence to foundational rules is crucial to ensure the integrity and reliability of their research endeavors. Here are nine fundamental rules to guide product teams in conducting rigorous and insightful research:

1. Define Clear Research Objectives

Before embarking on any research activity, clearly articulate the specific objectives you aim to achieve. These objectives should align with your overall product goals and provide a roadmap for the research to follow. Avoid broad or ambiguous objectives that can lead to unfocused and inconclusive findings.

Product Research Rules: Nine Foundational Rules for Product Teams to Run Accurate Research that Delivers Actionable Insight

by C. Todd Lombardo

4.6 out of 5

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A Graphic Illustrating The Importance Of Defining Clear Research Objectives. Product Research Rules: Nine Foundational Rules For Product Teams To Run Accurate Research That Delivers Actionable Insight

2. Identify the Right Research Method

There is no one-size-fits-all research method. Choose the method that best aligns with your research objectives and the nature of your product. Consider qualitative methods (e.g., user interviews, focus groups) for in-depth understanding of user needs and motivations. For quantitative data, quantitative methods (e.g., surveys, A/B testing) provide statistical insights on user behavior.

A Graphic Representing The Different Research Methods And Their Appropriate Use Cases. Product Research Rules: Nine Foundational Rules For Product Teams To Run Accurate Research That Delivers Actionable Insight

3. Recruit Representative Participants

The participants you select for your research should represent your target user base. Avoid biased sampling that skews your results. Ensure diversity in demographics, backgrounds, and experience to capture a comprehensive perspective on user needs and perceptions.

A Graphic Emphasizing The Importance Of Recruiting Representative Participants. Product Research Rules: Nine Foundational Rules For Product Teams To Run Accurate Research That Delivers Actionable Insight

4. Ask Open-Ended Questions

When conducting interviews or surveys, favor open-ended questions over closed-ended ones. Open-ended questions encourage participants to provide in-depth responses, offering richer insights into their thoughts and experiences. Avoid leading questions that can influence their answers.

A Graphic Depicting The Distinction Between Open Ended And Closed Ended Questions. Product Research Rules: Nine Foundational Rules For Product Teams To Run Accurate Research That Delivers Actionable Insight

5. Moderate Sessions Effectively

If conducting user interviews or focus groups, the moderator plays a crucial role in facilitating productive discussions. Establish clear guidelines, encourage active participation, and ensure all participants have an opportunity to share their perspectives. Avoid dominating the conversation or influencing the direction of the research.

A Graphic Showcasing The Responsibilities Of An Effective Moderator. Product Research Rules: Nine Foundational Rules For Product Teams To Run Accurate Research That Delivers Actionable Insight

6. Analyze Data Objectively

Once the research data is collected, resist the temptation to interpret it subjectively. Follow a systematic process of analysis, ensuring that your s are based on the evidence rather than personal biases or preconceived notions. Triangulate your findings from multiple sources to increase the reliability of your insights.

A Graphic Symbolizing The Process Of Analyzing Research Data Objectively. Product Research Rules: Nine Foundational Rules For Product Teams To Run Accurate Research That Delivers Actionable Insight

7. Communicate Findings Clearly

After analyzing the research data, present your findings in a clear and concise manner. Use visual aids (e.g., charts, graphs) to illustrate the key insights and facilitate understanding. Avoid jargon or technical terms that may alienate stakeholders.

A Graphic Depicting The Effective Communication Of Research Findings. Product Research Rules: Nine Foundational Rules For Product Teams To Run Accurate Research That Delivers Actionable Insight

8. Seek External Validation

To strengthen the credibility of your research, consider seeking external validation. This could involve involving external experts in the research design or conducting follow-up studies to corroborate your findings. External validation adds an independent layer of scrutiny and enhances the confidence in your research outcomes.

A Graphic Illustrating The Benefits Of Seeking External Validation For Research Findings. Product Research Rules: Nine Foundational Rules For Product Teams To Run Accurate Research That Delivers Actionable Insight

9. Track Progress and Iterate

Research is an ongoing process that should evolve as your product develops. Regularly track the impact of your research findings on product decisions and user outcomes. Iteratively refine your research methods and objectives based on the evolving needs of your product and its users.

A Graphic Representing The Cycle Of Tracking Progress And Iterating Research Efforts. Product Research Rules: Nine Foundational Rules For Product Teams To Run Accurate Research That Delivers Actionable Insight

By adhering to these nine foundational rules, product teams can conduct accurate and informative research that drives informed decision-making. By defining clear objectives, employing appropriate methods, recruiting representative participants, asking open-ended questions, moderating sessions effectively, analyzing data objectively, communicating findings clearly, seeking external validation, and tracking progress iteratively, product teams can build a solid foundation for product development success.

Product Research Rules: Nine Foundational Rules for Product Teams to Run Accurate Research that Delivers Actionable Insight

by C. Todd Lombardo

4.6 out of 5