Observation

Observation involves directly watching users and managers as they interact with the current system or perform their tasks. This technique helps validate information gathered through other methods and provides a real-world perspective on system usage and workflows.

Key Considerations

1. Users/Managers May Not Remember Everything

• Memory limitations: Users and managers often do not recall all aspects of their daily tasks or processes.
• Observation fills gaps: Direct observation helps identify tasks and details that may be overlooked or forgotten during interviews or surveys.

2. Validity Check

• Cross-check information: Observation can confirm or challenge the validity of information collected through other techniques such as interviews or questionnaires.
• Real-time insights: Provides a clear view of actual workflows and system interactions.

3. Behavioral Changes

• Observer effect: Workers may alter their behavior when they know they are being observed.
  • Increased caution: Workers might become more careful in their actions.
  • Low profile: Observers should minimize their presence to avoid influencing worker behavior.
• Avoid interruption: Observers should avoid interrupting or influencing workers to get an accurate picture of normal operations.

4. Consider Periodic Activities

• Capture all activities: Ensure that observations cover not just daily tasks but also periodic activities (e.g., weekly, monthly, annually).
• Comprehensive view: Some processes and tasks only occur at specific intervals and may be crucial to understand the full scope of system usage.

Benefits of Observation

• Provides an accurate, real-time understanding of how tasks are performed and how systems are used.
• Identifies inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and workarounds that may not be evident through other methods.
• Validates information from other sources, ensuring a comprehensive and accurate requirements gathering process.

By carefully planning and conducting observations, you can gain valuable insights into system use and identify areas for improvement or enhancement.