Healthcare research: A case study at Webcredible

Last month we unpicked the challenges around conducting research in healthcare.

Our speaker Martha Bramley, Experience Lead at Webcredible, spoke about a major proposition research piece conducted to help a healthcare service provider better understand peoples’ expectations and attitudes around a proposed new online service.

Martha worked as part of a small team to collect qualitative research for a medical organisation; with limited time and access to her audience, she used a sample size of 100 people. Martha discussed the recruiting methods she used as well as the challenges of recruiting a diverse cross section of people.

The issues of choosing the right context for your tests was raised; Martha recommended having a mix of in-situ and lab tests with her sample size as often in-situ experience prove to be insightful.

When discussing sensitive subject matters, such as health, it is important to show compassion but not appear overly involved - As you are still conducting research. Sensitive and emotive subjects can take a toll on you, as Martha found out on this research project. The best way to combat this is to unwind with a colleague or friend to clear your mind.

A key part to Martha’s research project was that no prototype was presented; this was done so that the expectations and attitudes of the intended user’s could be established without being swayed by a prototype. Another benefit to this was that the researchers involved could get a deeper understanding of what was desired from the online healthcare service.

Martha went into great detail with her talk, she spoke about the nuances and techniques required on a large research project. The enthusiasm she had for the project was clear throughout and left the audience inspired.

About Martha

Martha has 20 years working in digital design and research, across numerous projects, platforms and sectors.

From early in her career, she specialised in healthcare and cultural sector applications, before broadening her experience into education, cultural relations, international CMS rollouts, e-commerce, strategy and digital transformation.

She really cares about people — not just the end users, but the people she works with and leads. On the best projects, the journey is as rewarding as the outcome for all involved. She never stops learning. When not immersed in design & research, she loves to get outside and enjoy wildlife & nature.

Don’t miss out on Martha’s previous post with us.

Thanks

We would also like to say a big thank you to Webcredible for welcoming us into their lovely offices as well as providing the delicious pizza.

About the Author

Marwa Khalil is a London based UX and UI designer who has had the chance to work with some great London startup including Nutmeg and Peak. She is a regular contributor and editor for the LTUX London blog. Stay up to date with her on Medium and Twitter.