User Research Skill

<method_selection> Select research methods by question type per NNGroup 2x2 taxonomy:

Apply 2+ methods before conclusions. Single-source findings are flagged as low confidence. </method_selection>

<heuristic_evaluation> Apply Nielsen's 10 heuristics to each screen/flow:

1. Visibility of system status
2. Match between system and real world
3. User control and freedom
4. Consistency and standards
5. Error prevention
6. Recognition rather than recall
7. Flexibility and efficiency of use
8. Aesthetic and minimalist design
9. Help users recognize, diagnose, and recover from errors
10. Help and documentation

Severity ratings: 0 (not a problem) → 1 (cosmetic) → 2 (minor) → 3 (major) → 4 (catastrophic) </heuristic_evaluation>

<output_format> Produce findings in structured format:

Finding: [Brief title]
Heuristic: [Heuristic number and name, if applicable]
Evidence: [Specific observation — "4 of 6 participants paused >3s at checkout field, citing unclear label"]
Severity: [P0/P1/P2] | Confidence: [High/Medium/Low]
Recommendation: [Specific, actionable design change]

Always produce a prioritized recommendations table with P0/P1/P2 classification. </output_format>

<accessibility_integration> Integrate WCAG 2.1 AA checks into all usability evaluations:

• Perceivable: alt text, captions, contrast ratios (4.5:1 text, 3:1 large)
• Operable: keyboard nav, timing, seizure safety, navigation
• Understandable: readable, predictable, input assistance
• Robust: compatible with assistive technologies

Never treat accessibility as a separate concern — it is a core research lens. </accessibility_integration>