Collecting data

Question 1

How does a survey differ from an interview?

Answer 1

Surveys involve users responding to sets of predefined questions, usually done individually and privately.

Interviews, on the other hand, are in-person discussions where open-ended and follow-up questions are common.

Question 2

When would an observation be a preferred method of collecting data?

Answer 2

Observation is ideal for complex or unclear situations, revealing issues users might miss. It provides unbiased data, avoiding reliance on user opinions or memories. It’s useful when the cause of a system problem is unclear.

Question 3

What are three advantages of an interview?

Answer 3

interviews allow for open-ended questions and follow-on questions.

Clarifying questions can be asked quickly, at the time that clarification is needed.

People often provide more information when interviewed than if they complete a survey or write a report.

Question 4

What are two disadvantages of using reports as part of data collection?

Answer 4

1. You are reliant on the accuracy of the author of the report.
2. The data used in the report may no longer be relevant