User research and collaboration guide series

Capturing user needs to inform your design

Methods for learning more about your users so their needs can inform your designs.
Illustration of a team brainstorming and aligning on ideas

Overview

Your users can provide critical input into your designs, helping to ensure that the application will meet their needs.

User profiles

Methods to understand your users by developing profiles include: 

  • User archetypes
  • Personas
  • User stories

Journeys

Methods to map your users' and system's journeys include:

  • Journey maps
  • Service blueprint
  • Systems map

Mental models

Methods to explore how your users think about your design space include:

  • Mental models