What does "contextual inquiry" involve in user research?

Contextual inquiry is a qualitative user research method that focuses on observing users in their environment while they perform real tasks. This approach helps researchers gain deep insights into users' behaviors, workflows, challenges, and the context in which they use a product or service. By being present in the user's environment, researchers can gather data that is richer and more nuanced than what could be obtained through surveys or questionnaires.

The unique aspect of contextual inquiry is that it captures the user's interactions, making it easier to understand the motivations behind behaviors and identify any potential barriers they face. It combines both observation and interviews, allowing researchers not only to see what users do but also to gain insights into why they do it, thereby informing design decisions in a way that is directly aligned with user needs and contexts.

In contrast, options such as conducting online surveys or analyzing user data from competitors do not capture the same depth of understanding that contextual inquiry provides. Surveys typically gather quantitative data and offer insights into preferences without the qualitative richness, while competitor analysis is about examining existing products rather than understanding individual user experiences.