What research approach utilizes both observational and interview techniques?

Contextual inquiry is a research approach that effectively combines observational techniques with interviews. This method involves observing users in their natural environment while simultaneously engaging them in conversation about their tasks, goals, and experiences.

The observational aspect allows researchers to see how users interact with products or services in real-time, providing valuable insights into their behaviors and workflows. By asking questions during the observation, researchers can gain deeper context around those behaviors, uncovering the reasons behind certain actions and decisions. This dual approach helps to create a comprehensive understanding of user needs and experiences within their actual contexts.

While other research methods, such as case studies and diary studies, may incorporate interviews or observational elements, they do not typically blend the two in the same way that contextual inquiry does. Focus groups rely more on group discussions rather than individual observation and interaction in situ. Therefore, the unique combination of direct observation and interactive interviews makes contextual inquiry particularly effective for gathering rich, qualitative data on user experiences.